West Ham United launch Club London
WHUFC.com
The Hammers have launched Club London, offering supporters stunning VIP areas at their new home
23.09.2014
West Ham United are proud to announce the launch of Club London; London's newest and most luxurious members club located in the heart of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. As the Hammers take up residence in their iconic new home from 2016, Club London will offer supporters the chance to watch the most exciting league in the world from the best sports hospitality available across the globe. The stunning VIP areas will all be located in the West Stand of the newly-reconfigured Stadium, beautifully constructed to deliver hospitality and entertainment experiences that will set a new benchmark in the Barclays Premier League. Each of Club London's restaurants, lounges and bars has been refined with bespoke interiors inspired by West Ham's rich heritage and the triumphs that have taken place in the stylish and cutting edge East of London.
Members enter through their own dedicated VIP entrance and once inside can enjoy some of the Stadium's best views, stunning views across London, luxury seating and facilities and some of the finest food on offer from world-leading chefs.
The four Club London options unveiled by West Ham today are:
THE BM6
The ultimate invitation only private club worthy of Bobby Moore's enduring legacy.
EXECUTIVE BOXES
Sixteen private Executive Boxes, with seating for up to ten guests, more than a third of which have already been sold.
ARNOLD HILLS
A relaxed and cultured private dining club named in tribute to the visionary founder of West Ham.
THE ROYAL EAST
A chic and elegant contemporary lounge celebrating the triumphs that have taken place in East London and used to accommodate HM the Queen and her family during the 2012 Games.
To help manage the expected high demand from supporters and offer them an experience to remember, the Club have opened a dedicated Reservation Centre in Westfield, just a short walk from the Stadium. There, every current Corporate Member and Season Ticket Holder will be offered a dedicated appointment with an advisor to help them choose the right seat for their needs and budget. The Club are also delighted to announce that they have employed the expertise of market- leading CGI firm IO-Media to create a 'virtual venue' programme that allows supporters to take in the view from their proposed seat in the new Stadium. The first of its kind in use in the UK, it enables fans to navigate the seating bowl of the Stadium to check out the sightlines and surroundings before selecting their new seat for the 2016/17 season.
Today's launch is the first phase in the Club's carefully-planned migration process to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. There is already unprecedented demand from new customers clamouring to join the Club London waiting list, but, as always promised, existing Season Ticket Holders and Members will be the Club's first priority when it comes to choosing the seats that suit them best within the new Stadium. By April 2015, all Season Ticket Holders will have been contacted with details of their personal appointment at the Westfield Stratford Reservation Centre.
Speaking of the launch, Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: "We are delighted to announce the launch of Club London today. This new members only space will offer an unrivalled hospitality experience and will allow fans to watch Premier League football in luxury at one of the most iconic and famous sporting locations in the world. "We have been inundated with interest in these new hospitality areas and I am pleased to report that we have already sold more than a third of our Executive Boxes before the new Reservation Centre has even launched. "This is an incredibly exciting milestone for us as it is the first announcement on the way to revealing all of our world-class plans for the new Stadium. The details released today show that we have been true to our word, in that the new-look Stadium will look and feel like West Ham's home. "We can't reveal everything at this stage, though, as we want a visit to the Reservation Centre to be a truly memorable experience for our supporters when they attend for their individual appointments, so there will also be a few more surprises in store for them."
While space within Club London will be strictly limited, existing Season Ticket Holders wishing to apply for membership can join the waiting list for free by calling the Ticket Office on 0871 529 1966 and selecting option three.
All other supporters can join for a £10 registration fee: online at www.whufcboxoffice.com or by calling the Ticket Office.
Existing Corporate Seasonal Members do not need to join the waiting list, as they will be allocated a Reservation Centre appointment in the coming weeks.
As part of the Club London launch, the Club have also unveiled five stunning new CGIs of how the newly-reconfigured Stadium could look come August 2016
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Vice-Chairman excited by launch
WHUFC.com
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady CBE has spoken exclusively of her excitement at the launch of Club London
23.09.2014
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady CBE has shared her excitement at the launch of Club London - West Ham United's new luxurious members club at the Club's new Stadium. Club London will offer Hammers supporters the opportunity to watch their heroes in action from the best sports hospitality facilities anywhere in the world from summer 2016. On Tuesday, the Hammers unveiled a bespoke Reservation Centre in the heart of Westfield Stratford City, just a drop-kick away from the Stadium, where fans will be invited to choose their seat in West Ham's iconic new home. Club London will offer outstanding hospitality options to supporters. The options unveiled invite-only BM6, 16 private Executive Boxes, the Arnold Hills private dining club and The Royal East contemporary lounge. Further corporate hospitality options will be revealed in the near future. The Vice-Chairman told West Ham TV the launch sees the Club take another step towards the biggest moment in its 119-year history. "Club London is an exclusive members club which gives you access to the Olympic Stadium for West Ham matchdays," Ms Brady explained. "Club London will be a unique members' only place that links you to West Ham United. "This is the new, modern West Ham and the reason why we went for the Stadium. A combination of things have focused our minds - one, the Stadium has to be world-class, two, it must look and feel like the home of West Ham United and three, it has to set a new benchmark in terms of hospitality facilities. "There will be a total of 3,700 hospitality seats among the 54,000 we have for supporters, so we have a lot to do. "In explaining to people and showing them the look, the feel and the elegance of the Stadium that we're going for to make it world-class, that's what is most important to us."
Speaking at the Reservation Centre, where corporate members and Season Ticket Holders will soon be invited to take in the view and pick their prospective new Box, lounge or seat, Ms Brady said the Club is committed to ensuring every fan gets the seat of their choice. "This area has been built so that every supporter, from the people who want hospitality to those supporters who are coming here for the first time, will have their appointments. "Our corporate members will go first, then all those people who are current Season Ticket Holders, then Club Members. When they have exactly what they want, then the Reservation Centre will be opened the public. "Everyone will receive a communication and every single one will come in, they will be given a CGI presentation of exactly the view they can expect from their seat. They will be able to hand-pick their seat, put their name on it and look forward to being in the Olympic Stadium in 2016. "The CGI system, which is the first of its kind in the UK, has been invested in so that every single fan can sit in their virtual seat and look to the left, right and above them and see what's around them, look into the bars and areas so that they feel a connection. "With the hospitality lounges, it's a longer process because there is so much choice - there is something for everyone at this Stadium! "If you are a hospitality member, you will be able to move in the same bracket at a similar price. If you are a Season Ticket Holder, the same rules apply, while some areas of the ground will be cheaper. "We will be able to take everybody with us, while offering a new tier which will help us to supplement the price of General Admission and Season Tickets."
Wherever you opt to sit and enjoy the action in the new Stadium, Ms Brady says the Club are committed to ensuring you feel as though you are in a home fit for West Ham United. "One of the things we have to get right, as you do whenever you move to a new home, is that it looks and feels as though in some respects you have always been there, so you instantly recognise it. "There has been a lot of discussion among supporters because we are sharing the Stadium - not with another football club, but because a lot of other events will go on there - but it still should feel like it's our permanent fixture. "The launch of Club London has given us the opportunity to show supporters that we hope to exceed their expectations in all the things that we do."
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Club London FAQs
WHUFC.com
All the essential questions answered about West Ham United's new Club London
23.09.2014
I am a Season Ticket holder but am interested in potentially upgrading and would therefore like a Club London appointment?
Season Ticket Holders can register on the Club London waiting list for free by calling the Ticket Office on 0871 529 1966 and selecting option three. Once registered you will be allocated a Reservation Centre appointment following existing Corporate Seasonal Members.
I am not an existing Seasonal or Corporate Member but am interested in Club London?
You can join the Club London waiting list for a registration fee of £10. This can be done online at www.whufcboxoffice.com or by calling 0871 529 1966 and selecting option three. Once registered you will be allocated a Reservation Centre appointment following existing Corporate Seasonal Members and Season Ticket Holders. Appointments will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Why are Corporate Members being dealt with first?
Hospitality seats are being released for sale first to allow all Season Ticket Holders to upgrade to these seats in the new Stadium. Therefore all existing Corporate Seasonal Members who hold hospitality seats at the Boleyn Ground will have the option to select first, before Season Ticket Holders have priority ahead of other supporters.
When will we find out more about General Admission migration?
More information about the Season Ticket seat selection process in the new Stadium will be communicated to existing Season Ticket Holders and the wider supporter base before the end of this year.
When will we find out General Admission pricing?
2016/17 Season Ticket pricing will be announced in early 2015 ahead of the General Admission appointments at the Reservation Centre.
How do I join the last season at the Boleyn Ground waiting list
The 2015/16 Season Ticket waiting list is already open and gives supporters first priority for a Season Ticket following the renewal period. A £10 registration fee is required which is redeemable against a 2015/16 Season Ticket. Supporters can join the wailing list online at www.whufcboxoffice.com, by calling 0871 529 1966 and selecting option three or in person at the Boleyn Ground Stadium Ticket Office.
Please note existing Season Ticket Holders do not need to join the waiting list.
When will I be contacted about my appointment?
The Club can will start making contact with Season Ticket Holders in Spring 2015 with details of when to expect confirmation of their own personal appointment.
At the appointment, dedicated advisors will help supporters select the optimum at the new Stadium using ground breaking virtual technology. This will also enable fans to group together with family and friends come 2016, as well as those they currently sit with at the Boleyn Ground.
Full details and timing of this migration process will be announced before the end of the year.
What can I expect from a Reservation Centre appointment?
The Reservation Centre offers exclusive individual appointments to supporters, where they can experience the look and feel of West Ham United's new home, the world-class hospitality facilities on offer and see exclusive CGI representations of the Stadium in completed football mode.
One of the most exciting features of the appointment experience is the cutting edge Virtual Venue technology - the first of its kind in use in the UK. It allows supporters to navigate the seating bowl of the stadium to check out the sightlines and surroundings before selecting their new seat for the 2016/17 season.
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Cheikhou Kouyate update
WHUFC.com
West Ham United can confirm that Cheikhou Kouyate faces a spell on the sidelines with a groin strain
23.09.2014
West Ham United can confirm that Cheikhou Kouyate faces a spell on the sidelines with a groin strain. The Senegal midfielder suffered the injury during Saturday's 3-1 Barclays Premier League victory over Liverpool at the Boleyn Ground. The 24-year-old has subsequently been diagnosed with a Grade Two sprain, which has left the player in moderate discomfort and will initially limit his ability to run and jump. Kouyate has been assessed by the Club's medical department and, for the first week of his recovery, will receive treatment to aid the healing process, including swimming pool exercises Should this initial treatment prove successful, the summer signing from RSC Anderlecht will progress to begin a rehab programme in the gym next week. It is hoped he will be available for selection again in around six weeks.
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Jenko eyes Old Trafford start
WHUFC.com
Carl Jenkinson is targeting a full debut for West Ham United at Manchester United on Saturday
23.09.2014
Carl Jenkinson is itching to start his first game for West Ham United at Manchester United on Saturday. The right-back has appeared as a substitute in the Hammers' 2-2 draw at Hull City and 3-1 home win over Liverpool, following his return from six weeks out with a hamstring injury. Now fit and firing, the England international hopes to force his way into Sam Allardyce's starting XI for the Barclays Premier League trip to Old Trafford. "I think the coaching staff and physios are being a bit careful because I was out for six weeks and before the Hull game I only trained for two days," said Jenkinson. "I was out for a long time and you can't just throw someone back in after a long-term injury like that. "I feel fit and I feel good and both times I've come on I've contributed to the team, so I'll just keep working hard. It's the Gaffer's decision at the end of the day, but I think I've shown that I'm ready now."
Reflecting on Saturday's success against last season's runners-up, Jenkinson was happy to contribute to a memorable victory. The 22-year-old replaced Guy Demel with half-an-hour remaining against the Reds and worked hard to shackle the likes of Mario Balotelli, Fabio Borini, Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert.
"It was great. It was a difficult game to come on in, to be completely honest, because it's diffuclt for a defender to come on at 2-1 up. I was glad to contribute to the team and for us to go on and eventually get another goal. "It was an amazing result for the team and nothing more than we deserved."
While he was happy to contribute himself, completing 100 per cent of his passes and putting in a couple of strong challenges - one of which earned the No18 a yellow card for a foul on Alberto Moreno - Jenkinson says Saturday's win was a true team effort. The on-loan Arsenal man believes the arrival of nine hungry new signings and the fine form of the Club's established players has combined to produce an encouraging start to the 2014/15 season. "I think the whole midfield was exceptional," he enthused. "Stewart Downing has started the season in magnificent form and he has affected every single game and we're really seeing what a good player he is. It was a fantastic team effort and everyone can hold their head high because it was a superb win. "I think the core of the team has stayed the same. The spine of the team still has Mark Noble and the two centre-halves in there who played a lot of games last year. It's built around that, to be honest. "The players who have come in are top-quality players, which always helps. I think we're showing what a strong team we're going to be this year. Saturday was a fantastic result and it was nothing more than we deserved."
Looking forward, Jenkinson and company travel to Old Trafford to take on Manchester United on Saturday. There, they will face a new-look Red Devils side under the management of Dutchman Louis Van Gaal, who has spent nearly £150m on the likes of Argentina winger Angel di Maria, Colombia striker Radamel Falcao, Netherlands midfielder Daley Blind, Mexico defender Marcos Rojo and Spanish midfielder Ander Herrera. However, Manchester United were beaten 5-3 at newly-promoted Leicester City last weekend and the Hammers will seek to exploit any weaknesses in the home side. At the same time, Jenkinson would love to erase the memory of being sent-off in Arsenal's 8-2 defeat at Old Trafford in August 2011. "I think you could tell in the first 20 minutes against Liverpool that we were first to everything and we won everything," Jenkinson added. "It was a non-contest, to be honest, and it shows how much everyone wants it.
"Everyone is pulling together for the same cause and wants to do well for the Club and we want to have a strong season. "If we continue how we started on Saturday and we can carry that on, we can be in for a great season. I am just focusing on the next game now and hopefully we can all take that into the weekend."
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Mediawatch - 23 September
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
23.09.2014
The Sun (£) reports that Cheikhou Kouyate could be out for six weeks after suffering a groin injury in the 3-1 victory over Liverpool on Saturday, including a tweet from Joint-Chairman David Gold suggesting that will be the case.
According to the Daily Mail, Ravel Morrison could be set for a move to Cardiff City on loan. The 21-year-old midfielder has made two first team appearances for the Hammers this term.
The Daily Mirror pushes Stewart Downing's case for a return to the England fold, given his fine early-season form.
Finally, London 24 carries quotes from Carl Jenkinson, in which the Arsenal loanee says he would love to make his first start for the Club in Saturday's game at Manchester United.
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Ravel Morrison: Cardiff sign West Ham midfielder in loan deal
BBC.co.uk
Cardiff City have signed West Ham United midfielder Ravel Morrison on loan. The move for ex-Manchester United trainee Morrison, 21, was announced by West Ham co-chairman David Gold on Twitter. "Ravel Morrison has gone out on loan to Cardiff City," said Gold on Twitter. Morrison earlier tweeted: "Happy to get a 3 month loan @CardiffCityFC time to start playing some football again."
He joined the Hammers in a £650,000 deal in January 2012. But a string of problems have pushed Morrison to the periphery at West Ham, and managerless Cardiff wanted him on loan. The situation has been complicated by Morrison facing a court case in 2015 over an alleged assault. Cardiff are continuing their search for a new manager following the departure of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with Leyton Orient refusing the Championship club permission to speak to target Russell Slade on Monday. But whoever is eventually appointed, Cardiff are understood to be keen for Scott Young, joint caretaker boss alongside Danny Gabbidon, to continue his involvement with the first team.
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Ravel Morrison secures Cardiff switch
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 23rd September 2014
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has confirmed he is to join Cardiff City on loan. The 21-year-old midfielder, who is yet to start a game in the Premier League this season is poised to join the Championship strugglers on a three-month contract, according to the player himself. Posting on Twitter this afternoon [Tuesday], Morrison began with one of his typically cryptic messages in which he claimed he had "0% rating at West Ham" before confirming his imminennt departure from the Boleyn Ground.
ra'vel ✔ @morrisonravel
happy to get a 3 month loan @CardiffCityFC time to start playing some football again 😊⚽️
The England under-21 international could make his debut for the Bluebirds against Sheffield Wednesday at the Cardiff City Stadium this weekend.
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Teddy Sheringham exclusive: I'll take no credit for recent form
KUMb.com
Filed: Tuesday, 23rd September 2014
By: Staff Writer
First team coach Teddy Sheringham has refused to take the credit for West Ham's recent change of fortune in front of goal. The former West Ham and England international returned to Chadwell Heath this summer as part-time attacking coach, since when West Ham have hit nine goals in their opening five Premier League league matches. At 1.8 goals per game, that's a huge rise on last season's average of 1.05 goals per match. However it is an improvement Sheringham refuses to acknowledge solely as the result of his input. Speaking exclusively to the KUMB Podcast, he said: "I'd love to take the credit - but [I can take] none at all! "We've got some fantastic players that we've brought into the club during the close season and I think the manager's seen that and is trying to exploit that. He waited a little while for [Enner] Valencia to get fully fit, Sakho's come in and really impressed along with Zarate and Stewart Downing. "These boys have got talent. Downing; Zarate; Valencia, who strikes the ball amazingly. He's got that whip on free kicks that people like David Luiz and Ronaldo have, he can do that as well. When you've seen someone strike the ball like that you know he can score so you say go on have a go, why not?"
Despite refusing to accept the plaudits for West Ham's recent change of fortune in the final third, Sheringham did at least admit to having worked on certain routines with his forwards that have paid dividends in recent weeks. "I didn't ever think that I would feel so proud of players that I coach when they score a goal," he mused. "We've been doing shooting practice with Mauro Zarate - who scored a volley [at Crystal Palace] that we'd worked on, and Stewart Downing who scoring a curler that we'd done earlier in the week. "It was like 'oh wow, I'm glad I did that'! Perhaps it put something in their minds. I'm not trying to take the credit for it, I'm just saying it's nice. I can't believe how much [satisfaction you take from] our players scoring when you're working towards that goal.
"If I see a player who shoots from outside the area, I keep seeing it in training and then he tries it on a match day and it's lame I'd say, "why are you trying from there? You can't score from there, that's not your game. Slip somebody else in and get in the box". "But if somebody's shooting from the edge of the box in training and keeps bending it in the top corner or keeps dipping it under the bar, you'd say, "well why don't you try that in a game"? You try to ask players to do what they're good at."
This weekend the Hammers face a trip to Old Trafford, another of SHeringham's former hunting grounds. It's a trip that more often than not results in defeat for West Ham, although Sheringham has different ideas this season. "I think it's a fantastic time to play them," he said. "Whenever a team is not sure of themselves it's a a very good time to play them. Their forward line is like wow, we've got to keep them at bay, but they can be got at at the moment and if we go there with optimism, who knows? "We have to go with an air of caution, obviously. We've got to be very careful because with their forward line they could go bang, bang, bang and we're 3-0 down with three shots. We've got to be right on the ball and hopefully our forward players can come out and produce the stuff they've been doing over the last couple of weeks."
* You may hear to the full interview with Teddy Sheringham in the lastest episode of the KUMB Podcast, which also features West Ham Ladies captain Stacey Little.
Teddy on... the season so far
Tottenham (h) 0-1: "We were unlucky. I thought we had the better of the game and should have won it really."
Crystal Palace (a) 3-1: "It was a good time to play Crystal Palace. We played very well, dominated the game and won it with conviction."
Sheffield United (h) 1-1 (lost on pens): "The Sheffield United game was a bit of a surprise for us really, going out to them."
Southampton (h) 1-3: "They dominated us. They had a system that worked really well and I was very impressed with them on the day."
Hull City (a) 2-2: "Since [the Southampton defeat] we've just had a different air about us. playing against Hull we felt confident that we could go up there and get a result - and we were unlucky again not to [win]."
Liverpool (h) 3-1: "To turn Liverpool over the way we did, everyone was delighted. We felt optimistic about that and I don't think we've been optimistic about beating the big teams in the last couple of years, it been more in hope whereas the optimism was definitely there at the game."
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Carl Jenkinson focused on events at West Ham
Last Updated: 23/09/14 7:46pm
SSN
Carl Jenkinson remains focused on events at West Ham United as parent club Arsenal endure a defensive injury crisis. The England international took the decision to move to Upton Park on a season-long loan deal over the summer after being nudged down the Emirates Stadium pecking order by new arrivals.
While fellow right-back Bacary Sagna left for Manchester City as a free agent, Calum Chambers and Mathieu Debuchy joined from Southampton and Newcastle United respectively. With it apparent that game time would be limited if he stayed, Jenkinson decided to chase regular football across the capital. "I know Arsenal have a bit of an injury crisis over there at the moment but it was the boss's decision to allow me to go on loan."
It has transpired that remaining in north London may have worked in his favour, with Debuchy facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing ankle surgery, but Jenkinson is refusing to dwell on the past and remains convinced that he made the best choice for his long-term future. He said in the Newham Recorder: "At the end of the day, I can't think too much about Arsenal, I have a job to do here. "It has been a frustrating start but I am feeling fit and strong.
"I know Arsenal have a bit of an injury crisis over there at the moment but it was the boss's decision to allow me to go on loan. "I think in the long term it will be the best thing for me and the club for sure."
Jenkinson says he is ready to begin his West Ham career in earnest after shaking off a summer knock, with a first start for Sam Allardyce's side now being sought. He added: "The coaching staff and physios are being careful with me as I was out for six weeks and before the Hull game I only trained for two days.
"I was out for quite a long time, you can't just throw someone back in. "I don't know whether I will start from now on but my fitness feels good and I will keep working hard but it is the gaffer's decision. I think I am ready to start."
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West Ham's Karren Brady hints groundshare with Tottenham is unlikely
Last Updated: 23/09/14 5:18pm
SSN
Karren Brady has hinted there is little chance of a temporary groundshare with Tottenham when West Ham move into the Olympic Stadium. The Hammers will settle into their new home ahead of the 2016/17 season after being named as the Olympic Stadium's anchor tenant by the London Legacy Development Corporation and Newham Council last year. Tottenham are looking for a new temporary home during the 2016/17 season after revealing their proposed new stadium will not be ready by the time they have to vacate White Hart Lane. The Olympic Stadium, Wembley and stadium:mk have been mooted as potential destinations, but West Ham vice-chairman Brady has suggested there is little chance of the two clubs playing at the same venue. "No-one has asked us for our permission and if they did we would probably say no, depending on who it is - if you get my drift." "In reality, they probably could - but only with our permission," Brady said at the launch of West Ham's new members' club, Club London. "No-one has asked us for our permission and if they did, we would probably say no, depending on who it is - if you get my drift. "We are the anchor tenant for the winter matches and nothing else can happen in that time without our permission and our football matches take priority over everything else. "If there are events at the stadium we have approved, we do not see any of the revenue from that."
A reservation centre at Westfield Stratford City will soon be open allowing season-ticket holders to hand-pick their new seats at the Olympic Stadium, West Ham's new home until at least 2115. Under the terms of the deal struck with the LLDC and Newham Council, West Ham will contribute £15million towards the stadium's redevelopment and will pay an annual ground rent of £1m. The stadium is expected to accommodate 54,000 spectators and the transformation works will include a new roof as well as new corporate areas and retractable seating.
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West Ham's Ravel Morrison says he is joining Cardiff on loan
Last Updated: 23/09/14 4:32pm
SSN
West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison says he is joining Cardiff City on a three-month loan deal. The 21-year-old former Manchester United midfielder has been out of favour at Upton Park for some time amid well-documented personal issues. The player announced his move on Twitter on Tuesday afternoon, stating: ''Happy to get a three-month loan @CardiffCityFC. Time to start playing some football again.'' Manchester-born Morrison was considered one of the most talented youngsters to have come out Old Trafford's academy, but he made only three substitute appearances in the League Cup under Sir Alex Ferguson before moving to the Hammers in January 2012. The England Under-21 international has started only 12 Premier League games in over two-and-a-half years in East London, with previous loan spells at Birmingham and QPR. Morrison has appeared just twice this season, against Sheffield United in the Capital One Cup and Southampton in the league. He could make his debut for managerless Cardiff in the Sky Bet Championship at home to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday.
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MORRISON LOANED TO CARDIFF CITY
By Sean Whetstone 23 Sep 2014 at 17:00
West Ham till I Die
Ravel Morrison has confirmed his 90 day loan to Cardiff City. It will mean Morrison might not return to the club until 21st December although I understand West Ham have the option to call him back after 30 days. It was strange timing for the loan after Solskjaer's sacking less than a week ago. Cardiff are currently under caretaker managers of former Hammer Danny Gabbidon with Scott Young. During the summer transfer window it made sense as their former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer worked with him during his term as United's reserve team manager, so the Cardiff boss knew him first hand and his potential.
The additional claim that Cardiff have an option to buy at the end of the loan period doesn't make much sense to me. The player will return to West Ham before the winter transfer window opens and also before he faces trial on the 21st January next year.
I find it difficult to believe any club will take a gamble before knowing the outcome of his trial over allegations that he threatened to throw acid in the face of his ex-girlfriend and have her killed.
Morrison took to twitter to announce his loan and complain that people inside West Ham didn't rate him
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West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison 'joins Cardiff on three-month loan' after criticising Hammers
Sep 23, 2014 16:54 By Liam Prenderville
The 21-year-old has fallen out of favour at Upton Park and took to Twitter on Tuesday afternoon to announce his move to the Bluebirds
The Mirror
Ravel Morrison has claimed he is joining Cardiff on a three-month loan, announcing the move on Twitter. The West Ham midfielder has fallen out of favour at Upton Park amid a series of personal issues. He was accused of assaulting his ex-girlfriend and her mother this summer, a matter of weeks after Sam Allardyce handed him a lifeline. But after not featuring in any of the Hammers' games so far, Morrison announced he was heading for south Wales. The 21-year-old tweeted: "Happy to get a 3 month loan @CardiffCityFC time to start playing some football again." He added in another tweet about West Ham, which he later deleted: "I got no ratings off people in the club not the club it's self (sic) just people in it." Morrison spent the end of last season on loan at QPR, helping the club seal their return to the Premier League. Should the move go through, he would be expected to make his Cardiff debut against Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday. The Bluebirds lie in 16th in the Championship table as they continue the search for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's successor.
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Why Teddy Sheringham's appointment is proving a masterstroke by West Ham boss Sam Allardyce
Sep 23, 2014 20:30
OPINION BY STEVESTAMMERS
The Hammers front line have impressed in recent games and it's no surprise to see Sheringham making his presence felt, writes Steve Stammers
The Mirror
It might just be the appointment that enables West Ham to steer clear of any relegation fears. After the summer edict from the club hierarchy that more entertainment would be apparent this season, manager Sam Allardyce decided to act. Enter Teddy Sheringham. His brief was to work with the strikers, to bring the best from the front men in the squad. And you have to say it is working. It is no coincidence that the likes of Stewart Downing, Enner Valencia and Diafra Sakho have begun to flourish under the tutelage of Sheringham who is clearly enjoying his role. Sheringham also has a presence - and a knowledge gathered by working with some the most accomplished and successful names in the game. Team-mates have included Roy Keane, Paul Scholes, Jurgen Klinsmann, Ole Gunnar Solksjaer and David Beckham at club level and the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Sol Campbell and Alan Shearer at international level. He has also played at two World Cups and was a star of Euro 96. He helped win the FA Cup in 1999, scored in the Champions League final that same season and emerged victorious in the Premier League that same year. If it comes to "show us your medals" time, Sheringham will not be found wanting. And clearly he has the gift of communication. Sheringham has no doubt absorbed what he learned from the likes of Terry Venables -"the best man manager I have worked for," Sheringham once said - Sir Alex Ferguson, Geroge Graham and Glenn Hoddle. The message, whatever it is, is getting across. Sheringham was blessed with immense football intelligence as a striker. Never the quickest, the old football adage of the first yard being in the head could have been coined for him. As Sakho and Valencia have adapted so Downing has started to have more and more influence in a free role rather than being left isolation in a wide berth. He was outstanding against Hull and then again on Saturday in the thoroughly deserved win over Liverpool. Sheringham is making his presence felt, there is no doubt about that. He is proving that Allardyce was right to ask him along. And the fact that West Ham can go into Saturday's match at Old Trafford pressure-free is testament to the work of Allardyce with his squad and the work of Sheringham on the training ground.
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Shots fired as Ravel Morrison leaves West Ham
James Jones
September 23, 2014
Westhamworlod.co.uk
Ravel Morrison joined Cardiff on a three month loan deal today. The troubled youngster appears to have played his final game for the club now, having been loaned on twice since enjoying such a fruitful spell in the first-team at the beginning of last season. His court case in January looked to be the latest of a long list of off field crap from the former Man United youngster. Before that was his Instagram post of him wearing an Arsenal shirt. But upon announcing his move to Cardiff on Twitter today, he also took aim at the club with a bizarre claim that his not rated by anyone at West Ham. A strange comment to make, but it does make you wonder whether it's him being immature (again!) or he has been told by the management that he's just not good enough. If it's the latter then it's a frustrating outcome to what could've been a promising West Ham career for Morrison. The fact he has deleted those tweets since suggests it could well be Allardyce who has told him he isn't rated. But let's not jump to conclusions. So we'd like to wish Ravel all the best at Cardiff and then move to the enjoyable time we're having at the club at the moment. Long may it continue and, hopefully, it'll involve Ravel some time in the future…
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90 day loan for Ravel Morrison
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 23, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Ravel Morrison has confirmed his 90 day loan to Cardiff City this afternoon on social media. Speaking on his twitter account Rav said "Happy to get a 3 month loan @CardiffCityFC time to start playing some football again" ClaretandHugh revealed last night that contrary to national newspaper reports of a season-long loan the deal would be for loan spell would be forthree months . He added another two tweets about West Ham, which have now been deleted: "I got no ratings off people in the club not the club it's self just people in it." and "I've got 0% ratings at west ham"
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Gold: 'We can cope without Kouyate '
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 23, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold is confident the Irons can cope whilst Chiehou Kouyate recovers from a groin injury. The summer signing is set to be sidelined for a possible maximum of six weeks although the player believes he could be back within a month as ClaretandHugh reported earlier today. The midfielder will receive treatment to assist the healing process, including swimming pool exercises in the early stages and Gold believes the club's busy summer in the transfer market is about to pay off. Using his favoured social network -Twitter -to give his views, the co chairman was upbeat in his assessment of the situation. He said: "In the past losing a player like C.Kouyate would be devastating but now we have quality back up. Cheikhou get well soon. Dg
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Wednesday, September 24
Tuesday, September 23
Daily WHUFC News - 23rd September 2014
Sakho: Goals are why I'm here!
WHUFC.com
Diafra Sakho bagged a goal to remember in Saturday's 3-1 home win over Liverpool
22.09.2014
Diafra Sakho continues to make a fast start in Claret and Blue, after his sumptuous lob against Liverpool on Saturday made it three goals in three West Ham United starts for the former Metz man. As the Hammers flew out of the blocks at the Boleyn Ground, Sakho collected from Mark Noble on the right-edge of the box and beat Reds 'keeper Simon Mignolet all ends up with an inch-perfect dink into the opposite corner. With strike partner Enner Valencia stationed at the far post, not all were convinced of Sakho's intentions, but the 24-year-old insisted that his goal was as deliberate as it was brilliant. "I saw the 'keeper off his line, at the near post, and I only had one thing in mind," he told West Ham TV. "I tried it and it came off. I wasn't sure if it was going to go in or not, but thankfully it's ended up in the net. I'm pleased, pleased for me and for the team. "I've dreamed of scoring a goal as good as that, particularly here at the Boleyn Ground, but whether it be Liverpool or another club, a goal is a goal. I've not stopped receiving messages from my mates, so to know that they're pleased for me, makes me happy too."
While goals will always be the bottom line for the Senegal forward, the athletic and tireless Sakho is determined to bring more than just firepower to the Hammers party. "Goals are why I'm here and that's why West Ham signed me. But beyond that I'll try to help the team, as much as I possibly can. And even if I don't score, as long as I'm useful, that's the important thing. I work every day in training to try to be as effective as possible."
Key to his contribution will likely be his burgeoning partnership with Valencia, with the duo already showing signs of a healthy understanding. Having shared the goals at Hull City, West Ham's front two then gave Liverpool the run-around and Sakho believes they will only get better as the games roll on. He continued: "We've trained together for a short while now. Enner's a footballer who likes to get it down and play, and me, I like to come deep. I try to position myself in relation to him and vice versa. I hope that's going to continue to serve the Club well this season. "We certainly hope [to improve] and we're working every day in training for that. We're not going to relax and we'll carry on working hard at it, because it's only the beginning of the season and there will be plenty of matches to play together."
As for Saturday's scintillating performance and result, West Ham's new No15 felt the Hammers were good value for the three points and hopes the victory is a sign of exciting things to come. "We're delighted, we worked all week long for that, to give [a performance] at home," he added. "We've done that on Saturday and we're pleased. "We deserved it. On the whole, we lived up to manager's expectations and those of the staff. And if we continue to play like that, work together, united as a group, we'll do good things in the Premier League."
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Teddy loving coaching role
WHUFC.com
West Ham United attacking coach Teddy Sheringham is delighted to see the goals flying in
22.09.2014
Teddy Sheringham is loving life at West Ham United after Saturday's 3-1 win over Liverpool took their goal tally to nine from their first five Barclays Premier League games of the season. The former Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Hammers and England star's appointment has coincided with a more potent spell from the Hammers, with Sam Allardyce's men making a positive start to the season. Speaking on Sky Sports' Goals on Sunday programme, Sheringham was keen to praise the new attacking arrivals, who have all hit the ground running in E13. "It's nothing to do with me!" he smiled. "We just brought a few new players in and had a fresh start in the summer. Valencia, Sakho and Zarate have all fitted in very quickly and we're off to a flying start, especially after winning on Saturday. "It is very early days and we're all delighted with where we are at the moment, but we've got a long way to go to improve as well."
With nine goals under their belts a full six games quicker than last season, when it was 9 November before the ninth league goal arrived, there can be no doubt that the new boys have helped propel the Hammers forward in the opening weeks of the campaign. Added to that, West Ham's tally of 26 shots on target this term is only bettered by Chelsea (32) and Southampton (27), and their pass-completion rate has improved by more than four percentage points from last season.
Sheringham says coaching the Club's wealth of attacking talent is a joy and the 48-year-old is delighted to be back involved in football for the first time since retiring as a player with Colchester United in 2008. He explained: "I was out of the game for six years and was quite happy, enjoying my life. But I thought to myself I better take my coaching badges, so I signed up to do them last summer, and then Sam phoned me and asked if I fancied a job doing the strikers.
"It came along at a great time and it fitted perfectly for me, working with Sam as well. I knew him very briefly in my early days at Millwall, and I spoke to a couple of lads at West Ham about what he's like, and I thought to myself it's a perfect opportunity to get back in and have a look. "I started doing Tuesdays and Thursdays, but after talking with Neil McDonald and the Gaffer, they prefer me going in for the two days leading up to a game and that works perfectly for me. "Sam been fantastic for me, he lets me into all the meetings and tells me what goes on and what he has to get on with, other than football things. I've got every respect for him and I enjoy being around the way his man-management is. You can tell the lads love playing for him."
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Loan watch - Maguire scores on debut
WHUFC.com
A round up of all the West Ham United players out on loan including Sean Maguire's debut goal
22.09.2014
West Ham United midfielder Sean Maguire scored on his debut for Accrington Stanley as they won 5-4 in a thrilling game at Northampton Town on Saturday. Maguire had an excellent game and his 84th minute goal, Northampton's fifth, proved to be vital as Stanley conceded twice late on. Maguire signed for the Sky Bet League Two club on loan earlier in the week after John Coleman replaced James Beattie as manager to start his second spell at the club. Coleman had taken Maguire on loan over the summer as manager at Sligo Rovers.
George Moncur played the full game for Colchester United in a 0-0 draw at home to Bradford City in Sky Bet League 1. Colchester have been struggling this season and are currently down in 23rd place with just six points from nine games. However Moncur has had been in good form, netting three goals in ten appearances for the U's.
West Ham winger Matthias Fanimo was an unused substitute in Tranmere Rovers' 2-1 home defeat to Exeter City at Prenton Park. The talented winger is yet to play for Rovers so far.
Modibo Maiga was an unused substitute as FC Metz beat Bastia 3-1. The Malian striker has started two of Metz's six league games as they have enjoyed a good start to life in Ligue 1, lying in ninth position.
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Ladies inspired by McCrea-tivity
WHUFC.com
Sarah McCrea's hat-trick helped the Hammers to an emphatic 5-2 win over Plymouth Argyle
22.09.2014
West Ham United Ladies got back to winning ways as Sarah McCrea's hat-trick helped the Hammers to an emphatic 5-2 win over Plymouth Argyle. Having slipped to a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Copsewood Coventry last week, the Hammers bounced back in style at Mill Field. The success took West Ham to fourth in the FA Women's Premier League Southern Division table, having won three of their opening five games. West Ham looked threatening from start to finish as their first chance on goal came just three minutes in, when Vicky Kinsman fired a 25-yard shot into goalkeeper Michaela Phillips' arms. In a free-flowing match, the visitors hit back as Mollie Taylor latched onto a short backpass by Dancia Revell and her shot was cleared off the line. Plymouth's early miss served as a wake-up call for Julian Dicks' team, who responded well, stepping up the tempo. Kinsman opened the scoring in the 20th minute by stabbing in from close-range after good work from McCrea and Emma Sherwood. However, the lead was short-lived as minutes later Argyle's Ellie Dorey equalised through a spectacular effort from 20 yards out.
The Hammers took the lead once more seven minutes later as captain Stacey Little headed in at the back post from McCrea's corner. McCrea then extended the advantage in the 36th minute. Argyle 'keeper Phillips failed to deal with Kelley Blanchflower's cross, allowing McCrea to finish with a fierce half volley. West Ham took their 3-1 lead into the half-time interval. It took Dicks' side just two minutes of the second half to continue the rout as McCrea scored her second of the game. With Philips off her line, McCrea curled a wonderful shot around the visiting goalkeeper as she tried to scramble back. At 4-1 up, the Hammers were in control. With ten minutes left McCrea capped off her woman-of-the-match performance by completing her outstanding hat-trick as she timed her run to perfection, latching onto an inch-perfect through-ball from midfield before rounding Phillips and tapping home. There was still time for Argyle to score a consolation goal as Mollie Taylor kept her composure to finish calmly, but it was too little too late for the Pilgirms.
The Ladies will hope to maintain their form when they host second-place Portsmouth at Mill Field, Aveley FC, in a 1pm kick-off.
Ladies: Runnacles, King, Bottom, Little, Revell, McCrea, Bowers (Mellors 84), Lipley-Hinton (Donohoe 60), Blanchflower, Sherwood (Locke 72), Kinsman
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Cheikhou Kouyate: West Ham midfielder ruled out for six weeks
BBC.co.uk
West Ham midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate has been ruled out for six weeks with a groin injury. Kouyate, 24, suffered the injury during Saturday's 3-1 win over Liverpool. Scans have revealed the 24-year-old Senegal international faces a spell on the sidelines. "Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks," Hammers co-chairman David Gold wrote on Twitter. "He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 nov."
Premier League games Kouyate might miss
27 September Manchester United (a)
5 October QPR (h)
18 October Burnley (a)
25 October Manchester City (h)
1 November Stoke (a)
Kouyate could miss up to five Premier League games, starting with Saturday's trip to Manchester United. He joined West Ham on a four-year deal from Anderlecht in the summer, and had played in all five league games prior to his injury.
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Cardiff City keen on taking West Ham's Ravel Morrison loan
BBC.co.uk
Cardiff City have approached West Ham United about the possibility of taking forward Ravel Morrison on loan. The 21-year-old former Manchester United trainee joined the Hammers in a £650,000 deal in January 2012. But a string of problems have pushed Morrison to the periphery at West Ham and managerless Cardiff are understood to want him on a season-long loan. However, the situation is complicated by Morrison facing a court case next year over an alleged assault. Cardiff are continuing their search for a new manager following the departure of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with Leyton Orient refusing the Championship club permission to speak to target Russell Slade on Monday. But whoever is eventually appointed, Cardiff are understood to be keen for Scott Young, the joint caretaker coach alongside Danny Gabbidon, to continue his involvement with the first team.
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Cheikhou Kouyate out for six weeks
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 22nd September 2014
By: Staff Writer
Cheikhou Kouyate is set for a lengthy spell on sidelines after sustaining a knock during Saturday's 3-1 win over Liverpool. West Ham's £7million summer signing from Anderlecht had a scan earlier today which confirmed the bad news - as revealed this evening by co-chairman David Gold on Twitter. The Senegal international pulled up in the first half of Saturday's game clutching his groin, before doing similar again in the second period. Despite the apparent injury, Kouyate played the entire 90 minutes. He is now set to miss at least five Premier League fixtures.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks. He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 nov. dg
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Rodgers on... West Ham Utd
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 22nd September 2014
By: Staff Writer
Brendan Rodgers was both disappointed and a little bit shellshocked when facing the press after Saturday's 3-1 defeat. Here's his entire post match presser, exclusively in full on KUMB...
How do you assess that, Brendan? Simply a very good West Ham performance or a bad one by yourselves?
I think West Ham will be delighted, they played well. If I look at my own team, we were nowhere near the standard today. We made a really slow start and before we knew it we were 2-0 down. Lots of elements of our game have been very good, and everyone has seen it over the course of the last couple of seasons. It's just not quite happening for us at the moment, so we've a lot of work to do. Today was very disappointing in terms of pur performance.
Just a blip, or something a bit more serious than that?
It's a number of things. We showed our potential in the Tottenham game this season. When we have our players fit, key players who have been with us for a couple of seasons... We showed it that game, the real quality and intensity of the team. For ourselves, when those guys aren't available it can hurt us. But we should still be better than we were today so there's no doubt we need to get back on the training ground and continue to work.
We've set a new expectancy at the club which we have to deal with now. There's lots of games... Liverpool is always a club that people want to beat - certainly now we've got into the Champions League, we're even more of a rival. But we have to deal with that and that is something we will do.
Do you now have a better idea of what it will be like playing in the Champions League and in the Premier League. At times today it seemed like West Ham were faster to the ball when they were closing you down?
Yep. I thought they had better intensity than us. Our performance level wasn't anywhere near what I'd expect. Too many long passes and normally our passing and shooting are crisper and faster. In the game today we didn't show enough composure on the ball.
First and foremost I thought the intensity of our game wasn't quite at the level but that's something we will look at. I'm very fortunate that I've got an honest group of players who know that that level isn't what we expect and we will, over the course of the season, get better and better.
You had chances at 2-1 to score a second goal and perhaps a third as well?
Certainly when it went to 2-1 we had enough time. I think we regained a bit of our composure again. I felt I had to change the system in order to give us a new dimension in the game. Raheem scored a fantastic goal and up until they got the third goal at the end when we were risking the game and made a mistake, we probably weren't under too much threat.
So we had enough time to get back into it but just that little bit of luck we needed, the final ball and the final finish, just wasn't there for us.
Is it going to be difficult to manage expectations? Every time you lose a game now people are going to be writing you off on the back of what you managed to do last season.
We have to deal with that. You can't run away from it. We were brilliant last season. The only thing I will say at this point os last season we weren't playing to the level we were in the last three or four months of the season. We were asking will we get enough goals? Will we score enough? We finished the season with 101 goals. So I look at us now and think we've got a bit more to do and that's something that over the course of the season we'll attempt to do.
Do you think their 'keeper could have got sent off?
I haven't seen... I was too far away, I haven't seen any images of it.
Is there any bitterness now about the Sturridge injury?
Listen - I've said what I said on Daniel's situation, I was pretty clear on that. He's a top class striker and if he's in your team he's going to be badly missed. We've got a massive game now in the Cup in the week and then an even bigger game next week when we play in the derby game. So we need to refocus on today's disappointment and get back to winning.
Are you good enough to be title contenders?
Well I've always said that we were a work in progress. Everyone will probably realise that we've arrived early where we were last year. Everyone will look at Manchester CIty and Chelsea as the two squads set up for that. But there are no limits on what we want to achieve at LIverpool, we just need to keep moving forward - that's key for us this season, to keep progressing.
At this moment in time we've lost three out of our five games so we need to be much better and I don't think we can even entertain talk of that until we can get some consistency. We showed the potential in the team in the Tottenham game and we need to look to get back to that level as quick as we can.
How do you go about lifting them after two (league) defeats?
Well it hasn't happened often; I think it was last December in the two-and-a-bit years I've been here. Listen, I'm optimistic anyway - it's something we all know and the players are honest enough to know. We weren't at our level today or in the last defeat we had against Aston Villa. We just need to go away and reflect honestly. We'll come back and work hard on the training ground in the morning and we know that we'll have to be better than that.
Was it particularly disappointing to concede the first goal from a set piece today?
Very. Very disappointing.
Is there a wider issue there that you need to work on together?
There's definitely work. If you do it over a number of games then it's something we need to look at. It was never a problem for us last season. In the Aston VIlla game we probably bought the issues upon ourselves. It's important you stay calm in those situations.
I'm not sure whether the second goal was a cross or a shot, but whatever it came from a cross and we needed to defend better. It all came from the intensity of their start. I've been here at Liverpool for the last couple of seasons and in tough games we've actually performed well and played well. Today our performance level wasn't what we expect and normally the consequence for us would be a disappointing result - and that's how it was today.
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West Ham midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate faces six weeks out
Last Updated: 22/09/14 10:27pm
SSN
West Ham United midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate is facing six weeks on the sidelines after he suffered a groin injury in Saturday's 3-1 victory over Liverpool.
The 24-year-old Senegal international was injured towards the end of the Premier League match at Upton Park, but remained on the pitch as Hammers manager Sam Allardyce had already used all three of his substitutes. Kouyate, a £7million arrival from Anderlecht in June, underwent scans on Monday. There was no immediate confirmation of the extent of the injury from the club, but co-owner David Gold revealed the bad news on Twitter. "Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks. He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 Nov," tweeted Gold. "In the past losing a player like C.Kouyate would be devastating but now we have quality back up. Cheikhoe get well soon. dg." Kouyate has started all five of West Ham's Premier League games this season and has impressed with his performances as the Hammers have claimed seven points to sit eighth in the table.
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West Ham's Diafra Sakho relishing Enner Valencia link-up
Last Updated: 22/09/14 10:33pm
SSN
Diafra Sakho reckons West Ham can spring a few more surprises in the Premier League this season and believes he can form a fruitful partnership with fellow new arrival Enner Valencia. Sakho, who joined in the summer from Metz, made it three goals in three starts for Sam Allardyce's side when he lobbed Simon Mignolet during Saturday's 3-1 win over Liverpool. And Valencia, whose impressive performances for Ecuador at the World Cup prompted the Hammers to pay £12million for his services, opened his account a few days earlier with a blistering strike against Hull City. Speaking about the blossoming partnership, Sahko told the club's official website: "We've trained together for a short while now. Enner's a footballer who likes to get it down and play, and me, I like to come deep. "I try to position myself in relation to him and vice-versa. I hope that's going to continue to serve the club well this season. "We're working every day in training for that. We're not going to relax and we'll carry on working hard at it, because it's only the beginning of the season and there will be plenty of matches to play together."
Sakho admitted he meant the audacious effort that beat Mignolet at the weekend but believes his all-round game can help inspire a side that managed only 40 league goals last season. "I saw the 'keeper off his line, at the near post, and I only had one thing in mind," he added. "I tried it and it came off. I wasn't sure if it was going to go in or not, but thankfully it's ended up in the net. I've dreamed of scoring a goal as good as that, particularly here at the Boleyn Ground. "Goals are why I'm here and that's why West Ham signed me but beyond that I'll try to help the team, as much as I possibly can. I work every day in training to try to be as effective as possible. "We deserved (the result against Liverpool). On the whole, we lived up to the manager's expectations and those of the staff. And if we continue to play like that - work together, united as a group - we'll do good things in the Premier League."
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GOLD CONFIRMS KOUYATE IS OUT FOR SIX WEEKS
By Sean Whetstone 22 Sep 2014 at 21:35
West Ham Till I Die
Speaking on twitter this evening Joint Chairman David Gold said 'Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks. He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 nov. dg' The defensive midfielder suffered a groin injury on Saturday and underwent a scan today. On Sunday Gold said "Scan tomorrow but I think he will be fine. dg" but this evening he defended himself saying "I saw him after the match and he told me he would be fine. dg" Typical West Ham! Just when things start to go right something comes along and knocks us back down again.
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MEETING FRANK LAMPARD JNR
By Iain Dale 22 Sep 2014 at 13:00
West Ham Till I Die
As you know from my post on Saturday I'm doing my radio show from the Labour Party conference in Manchester this week.
Last night I was at the San Carlos restaurant, a place clearly inhabited by lots of Manchester celebs judging by the pictures on the walls. Anyway, one of our party left the table to go to the loo and came back very excited as he had walked past Frank Lampard, who was there dining with Christine Bleakley. Frank has a bit of history with our radio station after he phone in to complain to my presenter colleague James O'Brien about things he had said on air about Lampard's marriage and his children (Listen HERE).
Anyway, as I have said on here before, I have always been a fan of Lampard and have been disgusted by the way some West Ham fans treated him not only since he left the club, but while he was still playing for us.
Naturally, my colleagues dared me to go over and talk to him, but I have always thought approaching famous people in restaurants iss a bit crass, so I said I wouldn't. But what I did do is send him over a bottle of champagne with a note thanking him for his years at West Ham and for the entertainment he has given me (and us) over the years, even if he did invariably score against us when playing for Chelsea.
Frank, being the well brought up chap he is, immediately came over and thanked me. He seemed genuinely touched and kept telling me how much he appreciated what I had said and how he has a huge respect for West Ham fans. He's a class act, and in my opinion always has been.
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West Ham's Stewart Downing eyes England recall and European football following change of position
Sep 22, 2014 22:30 By Marc Isaacs
Winger whose last Three Lions appearance came in May 2012 has impressed since being switched to a more central midfield role by Allardyce - and is thinking The Mirror
Stewart Downing is hoping his rejuvenated performances in a new-look West Ham can earn him an England recall - and help the Hammers qualify for Europe.
Downing has been a revelation since coming in from the wing to a more central role, and during Saturday's 3-1 win over former club Liverpool he marked Steven Gerrard out of the game while still setting up two goals. The 30-year-old got rave reviews from his manager Sam Allardyce, who called him: "fantastic - moving him inside has meant his talent and ability has come through." And Downing, who last played for England in May 2012, said he would jump at the chance of a return to Roy Hodgson's squad. "I'd love to play. Love to. "I've always said I have never given up on England, but being realistic I didn't think I would get picked. If I keep playing well I will give him something to think about but if he doesn't pick me I will just carry on. "My honest opinion is he will keep on with the young players like Sterling and so on, to build a squad for the European Championship, but we'll see - something could happen." And with Allardyce's new, more attractive brand of football lifting the Hammers into the top half of the table - above Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester United - Downing believes they should set their sights higher. "Before the season, people were talking about a top ten finish. But if we play like that then why not aim higher? I always think at the start of the season to see if we can make the top eight and Europe. "Some might say it is unrealistic, but we have just beaten Liverpool and if we play like that on a regular basis we've got a hell of a chance. We just have to cut out the mistakes, play well consistently and we can do it."
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Kouyate is out for six weeks
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold has confirmed our worst fears on twitter tonight. Kouyate is out for five weeks following results of his scan. Speaking on twitter Gold said "Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks. He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 nov. dg" Gold had previously said Kouyate would be fine but responding to one fan he defended himself "I saw him after the match and he told me he would be fine. dg"
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'Sam's a stubborn man who has changed at last"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
ClaretandHugh's top columnist Leroy Rosenior shared the Premier League TV studio with Hammers boss Sam Allardyce yesterday (Sun) and told us tonight: "It's a long time since I've seen him as relaxed and chilled." Top pundit Lee – declaring Saturday's win over Liverpool as being "absolutely sensational" – said: "I made a point of going over and congratulating him. "He thanked me and we had a chat. He was very chilled and looking v at peace with the world. It's the best I've seen him for a while." Leroy, has several answers as to why it had taken the manager three years to come to a point where he could switch from one up to 'total football.' Never one to pull his punches Leroy – speaking exclusively to CandH – said: "He's a stubborn man at times. He may well be one of those who when people insist he does it their way he digs his heels in and does the opposite. "There's been an awful lot of pressure on him from the fans who I think have won the day. They created the pressure which made the board act and Sam has responded well. "This is a team that can really go places. I'm pleased for everybody involved with the club that it's going so well. Things are looking very promising indeed."
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Morrison 90 day deal on cards
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Ravel Morrison's possible loan move to Cardiff City would initially be for 90 days! Reports are circulating this evening that the Hammers midfielder is off to the Welsh club on a season. But ClaretandHugh was told this evening that the maximum allowable loan at this stage of the season is 90 days with a recall clause after 30 days. The deal has yet to be confirmed by the club but reports claim that it could be completed later this evening.
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Grown men had tears running down their cheeks
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
By Sean Whetstone
Saturday was a surreal adventure when pinching yourself was an absolute necessity. 'Unbelievable' is a vastly over-used word but it describes like the emotions of those watching like no other. Those two early goals caught the Boleyn ground faithful off guard as the cockney boys went two up after seven minutes. The atmosphere was beyond electric as Hammers fans around the ground sung their hearts out for the whole 90 minutes as a the Irons 12th man.
It looked to affect the Scousers in general and Steven Gerrard in particular who proved to be ineffective during the game. As seasoned West Ham fans we have been there before so we didn't want to get too optimistic and when we conceded just before half time there was some half time chat about a draw being an OK result. It wasn't simply about the result in the end – im,portant though that obviously was – but the nature of the way we played. Sure, we beat Spurs three times last year but this was a West Ham team passing the ball, dominating and entertaining. It was almost as if they had finally found the magic ' West Ham way' formula which Sam once dismissed as being delusional. I won't deny it was a nervous watch second half despite more, West Ham chances but the third goal was really icing on the cake.
As I looked around me there were grown men in their late forties in the stand with tears running down their faces as that third goal went in and we knew it was game over. It was the best game I have seen at the Boleyn for five or more years and on Monday evening I'm still smiling from ear to ear. I can even forgive Sam's smugness in his post match interview because if he can serve up that kind of football week after week he can led us into the Olympic Stadium as far as I am concerned. This Saturday I travel with my fellow season ticket holders to Manchester for our away outing at Old Trafford, it is a great time to play them after their 5-3 humiliation to Leicester and who knows what could happen? More of the same please Sam, I could grow to actually quite like you……
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Fanimo remains out in Tranmere cold
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Hammers loanee Matthias Fanimo was an unused sub for a third consecutive game on Saturday as Tranmere lost to Exeter. And despite having the speedy youngster on board it begins to look as though he may return to the Boleyn without a game. With only two matches remaining between now and the end of his initial loan period, the player and the club must bewondering why manager Rob Edwards wanted him in the first place. The player has made no comment although a red cross emoticon appeared on his twitter page on Saturday morning. According to one Tranmere insider Rob Edwards claimed that Fanimo was carrying a slight hamstring injury when questioned about his absence this morning. But he added: that didn't stack up adding. " Why name him on the bench then?" and added "He's made a rapid recovery as he's playing for the reserves against Morecambe as we speak"
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Maguire scores on Accrington debut
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Hammers loanee Sean Maguire got off to a great debut with Accrington Stanley on Saturday by scoring in the 84th minute to help his loan side beat against Northampton Town 5-4. Maquire's right footed shot from the centre of the box rocketed into the bottom right corner of Northampton's goal. The Hammers signed Maguire from Irish team Waterford in January 2013 but he was loaned to Sligo Rovers for much of last season where he scored one goal towards his end of his loan in July this year. The Republic of Ireland Under-19 international previously scored 14 goals in 32 games for Waterford. Maguire, who was born in Luton but grew up in Kilkenny, joined West Ham on a two-and-a-half year contract is still hoping to impress before the end of his contract in 2015.
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Ravel Morrison closing on loan deal with Cardiff but recall clause inserted with court case due in January
Ravel Morrison is set to join Cardiff on loan from West Ham
Midfielder has found opportunities limited at West Ham this season
Morrison is facing trial in January over claims he threatened to kill his former girlfriend
By SAMI MOKBEL FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 16:06, 22 September 2014 | UPDATED: 22:14, 22 September 2014
Ravel Morrison's troubled career at West Ham looks to be drawing to a close as Cardiff pressed ahead with a loan switch for the forward. The 21-year-old has been pushed to the periphery of manager Sam Allardyce's plans in recent months following a string of problems. It was hoped the former Manchester United man could revive his Hammers career this season; he was named on the bench for their 3-1 win over Crystal Palace last month before starting in their Capital One Cup defeat against Sheffield United four days later. He then made his first Premier League appearance of the season, coming on as a second-half substitute in the 3-1 home defeat against Southampton. However, Morrison missed the club's next fixture — away to Hull on Monday, September 15 — after informing the club on the Sunday that he was too unwell to make the trip to Humberside. He did, though, report to training at West Ham's Chadwell Heath training base 24 hours later as his team-mates prepared for their Premier League clash around 200 miles away. There have been suggestions this was another example of his lack of desire, but club sources have indicated the backroom team were satisfied that Morrison was sufficiently ill not to travel. Just a week later, Morrison's career at Upton Park looks to be as good as over as Cardiff, who are managerless following Ole Gunnar Solksjaer's departure, closed in on a season-long loan move for the forward. Morrison's West Ham deal expires at the end of the season and it now looks highly unlikely he will sign another. The contract is believed to have a January recall clause, however, with Morrison's court case over allegations he threatened to throw acid in his ex-girlfriend's face and have her killed due to start at the turn of the year. He is also accused of threatening to blow up Reah Mansoor's house during an alleged four-year campaign of harassment against her. Morrison is also alleged to have assaulted the 19-year-old and her mother, Parveen Mansoor, 39, in Salford in the early hours of July 27. Cardiff have a long-term interest in Morrison, having tried to sign the England Under 21 on a permanent deal in the summer. And despite the fact Cardiff are yet to appoint a new manager, Morrison was on his way to Wales on Monday. Morrison was heralded as a future star as he came through the ranks at Manchester United, but a string of off-field problems have dogged his career. Sir Alex Ferguson knew Morrison had the potential to become an Old Trafford great, but reluctantly took the decision to sell him to West Ham in 2012. He failed to settle and was loaned to Birmingham but returned to Upton Park at the start of last season and began to produce performances that catapulted him to the fringes of Roy Hodgson's England set-up. But the combination of a groin injury, a loss of form and concerns over his attitude in training saw Morrison fall out of favour under Allardyce.
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WHUFC.com
Diafra Sakho bagged a goal to remember in Saturday's 3-1 home win over Liverpool
22.09.2014
Diafra Sakho continues to make a fast start in Claret and Blue, after his sumptuous lob against Liverpool on Saturday made it three goals in three West Ham United starts for the former Metz man. As the Hammers flew out of the blocks at the Boleyn Ground, Sakho collected from Mark Noble on the right-edge of the box and beat Reds 'keeper Simon Mignolet all ends up with an inch-perfect dink into the opposite corner. With strike partner Enner Valencia stationed at the far post, not all were convinced of Sakho's intentions, but the 24-year-old insisted that his goal was as deliberate as it was brilliant. "I saw the 'keeper off his line, at the near post, and I only had one thing in mind," he told West Ham TV. "I tried it and it came off. I wasn't sure if it was going to go in or not, but thankfully it's ended up in the net. I'm pleased, pleased for me and for the team. "I've dreamed of scoring a goal as good as that, particularly here at the Boleyn Ground, but whether it be Liverpool or another club, a goal is a goal. I've not stopped receiving messages from my mates, so to know that they're pleased for me, makes me happy too."
While goals will always be the bottom line for the Senegal forward, the athletic and tireless Sakho is determined to bring more than just firepower to the Hammers party. "Goals are why I'm here and that's why West Ham signed me. But beyond that I'll try to help the team, as much as I possibly can. And even if I don't score, as long as I'm useful, that's the important thing. I work every day in training to try to be as effective as possible."
Key to his contribution will likely be his burgeoning partnership with Valencia, with the duo already showing signs of a healthy understanding. Having shared the goals at Hull City, West Ham's front two then gave Liverpool the run-around and Sakho believes they will only get better as the games roll on. He continued: "We've trained together for a short while now. Enner's a footballer who likes to get it down and play, and me, I like to come deep. I try to position myself in relation to him and vice versa. I hope that's going to continue to serve the Club well this season. "We certainly hope [to improve] and we're working every day in training for that. We're not going to relax and we'll carry on working hard at it, because it's only the beginning of the season and there will be plenty of matches to play together."
As for Saturday's scintillating performance and result, West Ham's new No15 felt the Hammers were good value for the three points and hopes the victory is a sign of exciting things to come. "We're delighted, we worked all week long for that, to give [a performance] at home," he added. "We've done that on Saturday and we're pleased. "We deserved it. On the whole, we lived up to manager's expectations and those of the staff. And if we continue to play like that, work together, united as a group, we'll do good things in the Premier League."
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Teddy loving coaching role
WHUFC.com
West Ham United attacking coach Teddy Sheringham is delighted to see the goals flying in
22.09.2014
Teddy Sheringham is loving life at West Ham United after Saturday's 3-1 win over Liverpool took their goal tally to nine from their first five Barclays Premier League games of the season. The former Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Hammers and England star's appointment has coincided with a more potent spell from the Hammers, with Sam Allardyce's men making a positive start to the season. Speaking on Sky Sports' Goals on Sunday programme, Sheringham was keen to praise the new attacking arrivals, who have all hit the ground running in E13. "It's nothing to do with me!" he smiled. "We just brought a few new players in and had a fresh start in the summer. Valencia, Sakho and Zarate have all fitted in very quickly and we're off to a flying start, especially after winning on Saturday. "It is very early days and we're all delighted with where we are at the moment, but we've got a long way to go to improve as well."
With nine goals under their belts a full six games quicker than last season, when it was 9 November before the ninth league goal arrived, there can be no doubt that the new boys have helped propel the Hammers forward in the opening weeks of the campaign. Added to that, West Ham's tally of 26 shots on target this term is only bettered by Chelsea (32) and Southampton (27), and their pass-completion rate has improved by more than four percentage points from last season.
Sheringham says coaching the Club's wealth of attacking talent is a joy and the 48-year-old is delighted to be back involved in football for the first time since retiring as a player with Colchester United in 2008. He explained: "I was out of the game for six years and was quite happy, enjoying my life. But I thought to myself I better take my coaching badges, so I signed up to do them last summer, and then Sam phoned me and asked if I fancied a job doing the strikers.
"It came along at a great time and it fitted perfectly for me, working with Sam as well. I knew him very briefly in my early days at Millwall, and I spoke to a couple of lads at West Ham about what he's like, and I thought to myself it's a perfect opportunity to get back in and have a look. "I started doing Tuesdays and Thursdays, but after talking with Neil McDonald and the Gaffer, they prefer me going in for the two days leading up to a game and that works perfectly for me. "Sam been fantastic for me, he lets me into all the meetings and tells me what goes on and what he has to get on with, other than football things. I've got every respect for him and I enjoy being around the way his man-management is. You can tell the lads love playing for him."
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Loan watch - Maguire scores on debut
WHUFC.com
A round up of all the West Ham United players out on loan including Sean Maguire's debut goal
22.09.2014
West Ham United midfielder Sean Maguire scored on his debut for Accrington Stanley as they won 5-4 in a thrilling game at Northampton Town on Saturday. Maguire had an excellent game and his 84th minute goal, Northampton's fifth, proved to be vital as Stanley conceded twice late on. Maguire signed for the Sky Bet League Two club on loan earlier in the week after John Coleman replaced James Beattie as manager to start his second spell at the club. Coleman had taken Maguire on loan over the summer as manager at Sligo Rovers.
George Moncur played the full game for Colchester United in a 0-0 draw at home to Bradford City in Sky Bet League 1. Colchester have been struggling this season and are currently down in 23rd place with just six points from nine games. However Moncur has had been in good form, netting three goals in ten appearances for the U's.
West Ham winger Matthias Fanimo was an unused substitute in Tranmere Rovers' 2-1 home defeat to Exeter City at Prenton Park. The talented winger is yet to play for Rovers so far.
Modibo Maiga was an unused substitute as FC Metz beat Bastia 3-1. The Malian striker has started two of Metz's six league games as they have enjoyed a good start to life in Ligue 1, lying in ninth position.
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Ladies inspired by McCrea-tivity
WHUFC.com
Sarah McCrea's hat-trick helped the Hammers to an emphatic 5-2 win over Plymouth Argyle
22.09.2014
West Ham United Ladies got back to winning ways as Sarah McCrea's hat-trick helped the Hammers to an emphatic 5-2 win over Plymouth Argyle. Having slipped to a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Copsewood Coventry last week, the Hammers bounced back in style at Mill Field. The success took West Ham to fourth in the FA Women's Premier League Southern Division table, having won three of their opening five games. West Ham looked threatening from start to finish as their first chance on goal came just three minutes in, when Vicky Kinsman fired a 25-yard shot into goalkeeper Michaela Phillips' arms. In a free-flowing match, the visitors hit back as Mollie Taylor latched onto a short backpass by Dancia Revell and her shot was cleared off the line. Plymouth's early miss served as a wake-up call for Julian Dicks' team, who responded well, stepping up the tempo. Kinsman opened the scoring in the 20th minute by stabbing in from close-range after good work from McCrea and Emma Sherwood. However, the lead was short-lived as minutes later Argyle's Ellie Dorey equalised through a spectacular effort from 20 yards out.
The Hammers took the lead once more seven minutes later as captain Stacey Little headed in at the back post from McCrea's corner. McCrea then extended the advantage in the 36th minute. Argyle 'keeper Phillips failed to deal with Kelley Blanchflower's cross, allowing McCrea to finish with a fierce half volley. West Ham took their 3-1 lead into the half-time interval. It took Dicks' side just two minutes of the second half to continue the rout as McCrea scored her second of the game. With Philips off her line, McCrea curled a wonderful shot around the visiting goalkeeper as she tried to scramble back. At 4-1 up, the Hammers were in control. With ten minutes left McCrea capped off her woman-of-the-match performance by completing her outstanding hat-trick as she timed her run to perfection, latching onto an inch-perfect through-ball from midfield before rounding Phillips and tapping home. There was still time for Argyle to score a consolation goal as Mollie Taylor kept her composure to finish calmly, but it was too little too late for the Pilgirms.
The Ladies will hope to maintain their form when they host second-place Portsmouth at Mill Field, Aveley FC, in a 1pm kick-off.
Ladies: Runnacles, King, Bottom, Little, Revell, McCrea, Bowers (Mellors 84), Lipley-Hinton (Donohoe 60), Blanchflower, Sherwood (Locke 72), Kinsman
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Cheikhou Kouyate: West Ham midfielder ruled out for six weeks
BBC.co.uk
West Ham midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate has been ruled out for six weeks with a groin injury. Kouyate, 24, suffered the injury during Saturday's 3-1 win over Liverpool. Scans have revealed the 24-year-old Senegal international faces a spell on the sidelines. "Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks," Hammers co-chairman David Gold wrote on Twitter. "He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 nov."
Premier League games Kouyate might miss
27 September Manchester United (a)
5 October QPR (h)
18 October Burnley (a)
25 October Manchester City (h)
1 November Stoke (a)
Kouyate could miss up to five Premier League games, starting with Saturday's trip to Manchester United. He joined West Ham on a four-year deal from Anderlecht in the summer, and had played in all five league games prior to his injury.
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Cardiff City keen on taking West Ham's Ravel Morrison loan
BBC.co.uk
Cardiff City have approached West Ham United about the possibility of taking forward Ravel Morrison on loan. The 21-year-old former Manchester United trainee joined the Hammers in a £650,000 deal in January 2012. But a string of problems have pushed Morrison to the periphery at West Ham and managerless Cardiff are understood to want him on a season-long loan. However, the situation is complicated by Morrison facing a court case next year over an alleged assault. Cardiff are continuing their search for a new manager following the departure of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with Leyton Orient refusing the Championship club permission to speak to target Russell Slade on Monday. But whoever is eventually appointed, Cardiff are understood to be keen for Scott Young, the joint caretaker coach alongside Danny Gabbidon, to continue his involvement with the first team.
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Cheikhou Kouyate out for six weeks
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 22nd September 2014
By: Staff Writer
Cheikhou Kouyate is set for a lengthy spell on sidelines after sustaining a knock during Saturday's 3-1 win over Liverpool. West Ham's £7million summer signing from Anderlecht had a scan earlier today which confirmed the bad news - as revealed this evening by co-chairman David Gold on Twitter. The Senegal international pulled up in the first half of Saturday's game clutching his groin, before doing similar again in the second period. Despite the apparent injury, Kouyate played the entire 90 minutes. He is now set to miss at least five Premier League fixtures.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks. He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 nov. dg
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Rodgers on... West Ham Utd
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 22nd September 2014
By: Staff Writer
Brendan Rodgers was both disappointed and a little bit shellshocked when facing the press after Saturday's 3-1 defeat. Here's his entire post match presser, exclusively in full on KUMB...
How do you assess that, Brendan? Simply a very good West Ham performance or a bad one by yourselves?
I think West Ham will be delighted, they played well. If I look at my own team, we were nowhere near the standard today. We made a really slow start and before we knew it we were 2-0 down. Lots of elements of our game have been very good, and everyone has seen it over the course of the last couple of seasons. It's just not quite happening for us at the moment, so we've a lot of work to do. Today was very disappointing in terms of pur performance.
Just a blip, or something a bit more serious than that?
It's a number of things. We showed our potential in the Tottenham game this season. When we have our players fit, key players who have been with us for a couple of seasons... We showed it that game, the real quality and intensity of the team. For ourselves, when those guys aren't available it can hurt us. But we should still be better than we were today so there's no doubt we need to get back on the training ground and continue to work.
We've set a new expectancy at the club which we have to deal with now. There's lots of games... Liverpool is always a club that people want to beat - certainly now we've got into the Champions League, we're even more of a rival. But we have to deal with that and that is something we will do.
Do you now have a better idea of what it will be like playing in the Champions League and in the Premier League. At times today it seemed like West Ham were faster to the ball when they were closing you down?
Yep. I thought they had better intensity than us. Our performance level wasn't anywhere near what I'd expect. Too many long passes and normally our passing and shooting are crisper and faster. In the game today we didn't show enough composure on the ball.
First and foremost I thought the intensity of our game wasn't quite at the level but that's something we will look at. I'm very fortunate that I've got an honest group of players who know that that level isn't what we expect and we will, over the course of the season, get better and better.
You had chances at 2-1 to score a second goal and perhaps a third as well?
Certainly when it went to 2-1 we had enough time. I think we regained a bit of our composure again. I felt I had to change the system in order to give us a new dimension in the game. Raheem scored a fantastic goal and up until they got the third goal at the end when we were risking the game and made a mistake, we probably weren't under too much threat.
So we had enough time to get back into it but just that little bit of luck we needed, the final ball and the final finish, just wasn't there for us.
Is it going to be difficult to manage expectations? Every time you lose a game now people are going to be writing you off on the back of what you managed to do last season.
We have to deal with that. You can't run away from it. We were brilliant last season. The only thing I will say at this point os last season we weren't playing to the level we were in the last three or four months of the season. We were asking will we get enough goals? Will we score enough? We finished the season with 101 goals. So I look at us now and think we've got a bit more to do and that's something that over the course of the season we'll attempt to do.
Do you think their 'keeper could have got sent off?
I haven't seen... I was too far away, I haven't seen any images of it.
Is there any bitterness now about the Sturridge injury?
Listen - I've said what I said on Daniel's situation, I was pretty clear on that. He's a top class striker and if he's in your team he's going to be badly missed. We've got a massive game now in the Cup in the week and then an even bigger game next week when we play in the derby game. So we need to refocus on today's disappointment and get back to winning.
Are you good enough to be title contenders?
Well I've always said that we were a work in progress. Everyone will probably realise that we've arrived early where we were last year. Everyone will look at Manchester CIty and Chelsea as the two squads set up for that. But there are no limits on what we want to achieve at LIverpool, we just need to keep moving forward - that's key for us this season, to keep progressing.
At this moment in time we've lost three out of our five games so we need to be much better and I don't think we can even entertain talk of that until we can get some consistency. We showed the potential in the team in the Tottenham game and we need to look to get back to that level as quick as we can.
How do you go about lifting them after two (league) defeats?
Well it hasn't happened often; I think it was last December in the two-and-a-bit years I've been here. Listen, I'm optimistic anyway - it's something we all know and the players are honest enough to know. We weren't at our level today or in the last defeat we had against Aston Villa. We just need to go away and reflect honestly. We'll come back and work hard on the training ground in the morning and we know that we'll have to be better than that.
Was it particularly disappointing to concede the first goal from a set piece today?
Very. Very disappointing.
Is there a wider issue there that you need to work on together?
There's definitely work. If you do it over a number of games then it's something we need to look at. It was never a problem for us last season. In the Aston VIlla game we probably bought the issues upon ourselves. It's important you stay calm in those situations.
I'm not sure whether the second goal was a cross or a shot, but whatever it came from a cross and we needed to defend better. It all came from the intensity of their start. I've been here at Liverpool for the last couple of seasons and in tough games we've actually performed well and played well. Today our performance level wasn't what we expect and normally the consequence for us would be a disappointing result - and that's how it was today.
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West Ham midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate faces six weeks out
Last Updated: 22/09/14 10:27pm
SSN
West Ham United midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate is facing six weeks on the sidelines after he suffered a groin injury in Saturday's 3-1 victory over Liverpool.
The 24-year-old Senegal international was injured towards the end of the Premier League match at Upton Park, but remained on the pitch as Hammers manager Sam Allardyce had already used all three of his substitutes. Kouyate, a £7million arrival from Anderlecht in June, underwent scans on Monday. There was no immediate confirmation of the extent of the injury from the club, but co-owner David Gold revealed the bad news on Twitter. "Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks. He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 Nov," tweeted Gold. "In the past losing a player like C.Kouyate would be devastating but now we have quality back up. Cheikhoe get well soon. dg." Kouyate has started all five of West Ham's Premier League games this season and has impressed with his performances as the Hammers have claimed seven points to sit eighth in the table.
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West Ham's Diafra Sakho relishing Enner Valencia link-up
Last Updated: 22/09/14 10:33pm
SSN
Diafra Sakho reckons West Ham can spring a few more surprises in the Premier League this season and believes he can form a fruitful partnership with fellow new arrival Enner Valencia. Sakho, who joined in the summer from Metz, made it three goals in three starts for Sam Allardyce's side when he lobbed Simon Mignolet during Saturday's 3-1 win over Liverpool. And Valencia, whose impressive performances for Ecuador at the World Cup prompted the Hammers to pay £12million for his services, opened his account a few days earlier with a blistering strike against Hull City. Speaking about the blossoming partnership, Sahko told the club's official website: "We've trained together for a short while now. Enner's a footballer who likes to get it down and play, and me, I like to come deep. "I try to position myself in relation to him and vice-versa. I hope that's going to continue to serve the club well this season. "We're working every day in training for that. We're not going to relax and we'll carry on working hard at it, because it's only the beginning of the season and there will be plenty of matches to play together."
Sakho admitted he meant the audacious effort that beat Mignolet at the weekend but believes his all-round game can help inspire a side that managed only 40 league goals last season. "I saw the 'keeper off his line, at the near post, and I only had one thing in mind," he added. "I tried it and it came off. I wasn't sure if it was going to go in or not, but thankfully it's ended up in the net. I've dreamed of scoring a goal as good as that, particularly here at the Boleyn Ground. "Goals are why I'm here and that's why West Ham signed me but beyond that I'll try to help the team, as much as I possibly can. I work every day in training to try to be as effective as possible. "We deserved (the result against Liverpool). On the whole, we lived up to the manager's expectations and those of the staff. And if we continue to play like that - work together, united as a group - we'll do good things in the Premier League."
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GOLD CONFIRMS KOUYATE IS OUT FOR SIX WEEKS
By Sean Whetstone 22 Sep 2014 at 21:35
West Ham Till I Die
Speaking on twitter this evening Joint Chairman David Gold said 'Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks. He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 nov. dg' The defensive midfielder suffered a groin injury on Saturday and underwent a scan today. On Sunday Gold said "Scan tomorrow but I think he will be fine. dg" but this evening he defended himself saying "I saw him after the match and he told me he would be fine. dg" Typical West Ham! Just when things start to go right something comes along and knocks us back down again.
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MEETING FRANK LAMPARD JNR
By Iain Dale 22 Sep 2014 at 13:00
West Ham Till I Die
As you know from my post on Saturday I'm doing my radio show from the Labour Party conference in Manchester this week.
Last night I was at the San Carlos restaurant, a place clearly inhabited by lots of Manchester celebs judging by the pictures on the walls. Anyway, one of our party left the table to go to the loo and came back very excited as he had walked past Frank Lampard, who was there dining with Christine Bleakley. Frank has a bit of history with our radio station after he phone in to complain to my presenter colleague James O'Brien about things he had said on air about Lampard's marriage and his children (Listen HERE).
Anyway, as I have said on here before, I have always been a fan of Lampard and have been disgusted by the way some West Ham fans treated him not only since he left the club, but while he was still playing for us.
Naturally, my colleagues dared me to go over and talk to him, but I have always thought approaching famous people in restaurants iss a bit crass, so I said I wouldn't. But what I did do is send him over a bottle of champagne with a note thanking him for his years at West Ham and for the entertainment he has given me (and us) over the years, even if he did invariably score against us when playing for Chelsea.
Frank, being the well brought up chap he is, immediately came over and thanked me. He seemed genuinely touched and kept telling me how much he appreciated what I had said and how he has a huge respect for West Ham fans. He's a class act, and in my opinion always has been.
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West Ham's Stewart Downing eyes England recall and European football following change of position
Sep 22, 2014 22:30 By Marc Isaacs
Winger whose last Three Lions appearance came in May 2012 has impressed since being switched to a more central midfield role by Allardyce - and is thinking The Mirror
Stewart Downing is hoping his rejuvenated performances in a new-look West Ham can earn him an England recall - and help the Hammers qualify for Europe.
Downing has been a revelation since coming in from the wing to a more central role, and during Saturday's 3-1 win over former club Liverpool he marked Steven Gerrard out of the game while still setting up two goals. The 30-year-old got rave reviews from his manager Sam Allardyce, who called him: "fantastic - moving him inside has meant his talent and ability has come through." And Downing, who last played for England in May 2012, said he would jump at the chance of a return to Roy Hodgson's squad. "I'd love to play. Love to. "I've always said I have never given up on England, but being realistic I didn't think I would get picked. If I keep playing well I will give him something to think about but if he doesn't pick me I will just carry on. "My honest opinion is he will keep on with the young players like Sterling and so on, to build a squad for the European Championship, but we'll see - something could happen." And with Allardyce's new, more attractive brand of football lifting the Hammers into the top half of the table - above Tottenham, Liverpool and Manchester United - Downing believes they should set their sights higher. "Before the season, people were talking about a top ten finish. But if we play like that then why not aim higher? I always think at the start of the season to see if we can make the top eight and Europe. "Some might say it is unrealistic, but we have just beaten Liverpool and if we play like that on a regular basis we've got a hell of a chance. We just have to cut out the mistakes, play well consistently and we can do it."
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Kouyate is out for six weeks
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold has confirmed our worst fears on twitter tonight. Kouyate is out for five weeks following results of his scan. Speaking on twitter Gold said "Bad news. C.Kouyate will be out for 6 weeks. He will probably miss 5 games and might be available for Aston Villa at home 8 nov. dg" Gold had previously said Kouyate would be fine but responding to one fan he defended himself "I saw him after the match and he told me he would be fine. dg"
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'Sam's a stubborn man who has changed at last"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
ClaretandHugh's top columnist Leroy Rosenior shared the Premier League TV studio with Hammers boss Sam Allardyce yesterday (Sun) and told us tonight: "It's a long time since I've seen him as relaxed and chilled." Top pundit Lee – declaring Saturday's win over Liverpool as being "absolutely sensational" – said: "I made a point of going over and congratulating him. "He thanked me and we had a chat. He was very chilled and looking v at peace with the world. It's the best I've seen him for a while." Leroy, has several answers as to why it had taken the manager three years to come to a point where he could switch from one up to 'total football.' Never one to pull his punches Leroy – speaking exclusively to CandH – said: "He's a stubborn man at times. He may well be one of those who when people insist he does it their way he digs his heels in and does the opposite. "There's been an awful lot of pressure on him from the fans who I think have won the day. They created the pressure which made the board act and Sam has responded well. "This is a team that can really go places. I'm pleased for everybody involved with the club that it's going so well. Things are looking very promising indeed."
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Morrison 90 day deal on cards
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Ravel Morrison's possible loan move to Cardiff City would initially be for 90 days! Reports are circulating this evening that the Hammers midfielder is off to the Welsh club on a season. But ClaretandHugh was told this evening that the maximum allowable loan at this stage of the season is 90 days with a recall clause after 30 days. The deal has yet to be confirmed by the club but reports claim that it could be completed later this evening.
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Grown men had tears running down their cheeks
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
By Sean Whetstone
Saturday was a surreal adventure when pinching yourself was an absolute necessity. 'Unbelievable' is a vastly over-used word but it describes like the emotions of those watching like no other. Those two early goals caught the Boleyn ground faithful off guard as the cockney boys went two up after seven minutes. The atmosphere was beyond electric as Hammers fans around the ground sung their hearts out for the whole 90 minutes as a the Irons 12th man.
It looked to affect the Scousers in general and Steven Gerrard in particular who proved to be ineffective during the game. As seasoned West Ham fans we have been there before so we didn't want to get too optimistic and when we conceded just before half time there was some half time chat about a draw being an OK result. It wasn't simply about the result in the end – im,portant though that obviously was – but the nature of the way we played. Sure, we beat Spurs three times last year but this was a West Ham team passing the ball, dominating and entertaining. It was almost as if they had finally found the magic ' West Ham way' formula which Sam once dismissed as being delusional. I won't deny it was a nervous watch second half despite more, West Ham chances but the third goal was really icing on the cake.
As I looked around me there were grown men in their late forties in the stand with tears running down their faces as that third goal went in and we knew it was game over. It was the best game I have seen at the Boleyn for five or more years and on Monday evening I'm still smiling from ear to ear. I can even forgive Sam's smugness in his post match interview because if he can serve up that kind of football week after week he can led us into the Olympic Stadium as far as I am concerned. This Saturday I travel with my fellow season ticket holders to Manchester for our away outing at Old Trafford, it is a great time to play them after their 5-3 humiliation to Leicester and who knows what could happen? More of the same please Sam, I could grow to actually quite like you……
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Fanimo remains out in Tranmere cold
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Hammers loanee Matthias Fanimo was an unused sub for a third consecutive game on Saturday as Tranmere lost to Exeter. And despite having the speedy youngster on board it begins to look as though he may return to the Boleyn without a game. With only two matches remaining between now and the end of his initial loan period, the player and the club must bewondering why manager Rob Edwards wanted him in the first place. The player has made no comment although a red cross emoticon appeared on his twitter page on Saturday morning. According to one Tranmere insider Rob Edwards claimed that Fanimo was carrying a slight hamstring injury when questioned about his absence this morning. But he added: that didn't stack up adding. " Why name him on the bench then?" and added "He's made a rapid recovery as he's playing for the reserves against Morecambe as we speak"
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Maguire scores on Accrington debut
Posted by Sean Whetstone on September 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Hammers loanee Sean Maguire got off to a great debut with Accrington Stanley on Saturday by scoring in the 84th minute to help his loan side beat against Northampton Town 5-4. Maquire's right footed shot from the centre of the box rocketed into the bottom right corner of Northampton's goal. The Hammers signed Maguire from Irish team Waterford in January 2013 but he was loaned to Sligo Rovers for much of last season where he scored one goal towards his end of his loan in July this year. The Republic of Ireland Under-19 international previously scored 14 goals in 32 games for Waterford. Maguire, who was born in Luton but grew up in Kilkenny, joined West Ham on a two-and-a-half year contract is still hoping to impress before the end of his contract in 2015.
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Ravel Morrison closing on loan deal with Cardiff but recall clause inserted with court case due in January
Ravel Morrison is set to join Cardiff on loan from West Ham
Midfielder has found opportunities limited at West Ham this season
Morrison is facing trial in January over claims he threatened to kill his former girlfriend
By SAMI MOKBEL FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 16:06, 22 September 2014 | UPDATED: 22:14, 22 September 2014
Ravel Morrison's troubled career at West Ham looks to be drawing to a close as Cardiff pressed ahead with a loan switch for the forward. The 21-year-old has been pushed to the periphery of manager Sam Allardyce's plans in recent months following a string of problems. It was hoped the former Manchester United man could revive his Hammers career this season; he was named on the bench for their 3-1 win over Crystal Palace last month before starting in their Capital One Cup defeat against Sheffield United four days later. He then made his first Premier League appearance of the season, coming on as a second-half substitute in the 3-1 home defeat against Southampton. However, Morrison missed the club's next fixture — away to Hull on Monday, September 15 — after informing the club on the Sunday that he was too unwell to make the trip to Humberside. He did, though, report to training at West Ham's Chadwell Heath training base 24 hours later as his team-mates prepared for their Premier League clash around 200 miles away. There have been suggestions this was another example of his lack of desire, but club sources have indicated the backroom team were satisfied that Morrison was sufficiently ill not to travel. Just a week later, Morrison's career at Upton Park looks to be as good as over as Cardiff, who are managerless following Ole Gunnar Solksjaer's departure, closed in on a season-long loan move for the forward. Morrison's West Ham deal expires at the end of the season and it now looks highly unlikely he will sign another. The contract is believed to have a January recall clause, however, with Morrison's court case over allegations he threatened to throw acid in his ex-girlfriend's face and have her killed due to start at the turn of the year. He is also accused of threatening to blow up Reah Mansoor's house during an alleged four-year campaign of harassment against her. Morrison is also alleged to have assaulted the 19-year-old and her mother, Parveen Mansoor, 39, in Salford in the early hours of July 27. Cardiff have a long-term interest in Morrison, having tried to sign the England Under 21 on a permanent deal in the summer. And despite the fact Cardiff are yet to appoint a new manager, Morrison was on his way to Wales on Monday. Morrison was heralded as a future star as he came through the ranks at Manchester United, but a string of off-field problems have dogged his career. Sir Alex Ferguson knew Morrison had the potential to become an Old Trafford great, but reluctantly took the decision to sell him to West Ham in 2012. He failed to settle and was loaned to Birmingham but returned to Upton Park at the start of last season and began to produce performances that catapulted him to the fringes of Roy Hodgson's England set-up. But the combination of a groin injury, a loss of form and concerns over his attitude in training saw Morrison fall out of favour under Allardyce.
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Monday, September 22
Daily WHUFC News - 22nd September 2014
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has praised Stewart Downing's contribution to West Ham
United's promising start to the season
21.09.2014
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce hailed Stewart Downing's early-season
form after the attacking midfielder was instrumental in Saturday's 3-1 win
against his former side Liverpool. Downing was again deployed at the tip of
Big Sam's attacking diamond formation and he rewarded his manager by playing
a key role in two of the Hammers' three goals. His free-kick from the right
led to Winston Reid's opener and then he neatly fed Morgan Amalfitano in the
dying minutes to complete the hosts' scoring. "Stewart's been outstanding
this season," Allardyce said. "Playing him in the middle has really worked.
His talent is clear for everyone to see. The ball for Amalfitano's goal was
superb. He gets more touches in the centre, I'm sure he's enjoying it."
While the manager insisted that everyone should savour the victory he was
careful to add a note of caution that another stern test awaits on Saturday
when West Ham travel to Manchester United. After two consecutive attacking
displays that have delivered five goals and four points, he does not want
his side to get ahead of themselves. "Monday is another day, we could enjoy
the result on Saturday but we need to make sure on Monday we get ready for
Old Trafford, because that is a massive game. "We can't dwell on the victory
for too long. We can definitely enjoy it, but on Monday we'll get our feet
back on the ground, and see what we can do at Old Trafford."
The Hammers started last Saturday's game emphatically as they raced to a two
goal lead as Reid and Diafra Sakho scored inside the first seven minutes.
Liverpool starlet Raheem Sterling lashed in a shot from the edge of the box
to make it 2-1 at half-time, yet the first home win of the season was
secured as Downing released Amalfitano to slot home. "We couldn't have
asked for a better start. We played a high pressing game today which is why
we dominated Liverpool in the first half," Big Sam added. "To score two
goals in that early period really stunned the Liverpool players. We really
played outstandingly well, and we deserved everything we've got today."
Sakho was also one of the standout performers as he scored an audacious lob
from a tight angle. There were some questions post-match about whether the
summer signing from Metz had meant to shoot, but Big Sam explained he was in
no doubt it was a deliberate shot: "Sakho definitely meant to score. He was
ballistic when the Hull goal was given as an own goal. When the Dubious
Goals Panel changed their minds you couldn't wipe the smile off his face.
"He loves scoring goals. For me he's gone under the radar because we signed
Enner Valencia. But he scored 20 goals for Metz last year."
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Lee targets run of goals
WHUFC.com
West Ham United striker Elliot Lee hopes his opening goal of the season is
the first of many
21.09.2014
West Ham United striker Elliot Lee scored his first goal of the season to
help the Development Squad clinch a 1-1 draw away to Fulham at Motspur Park
on Friday night. Fulham opened the scoring in the 52nd minute through a
cushioned header by striker Marcello Trotta before Lee equalised two minutes
later, steering Lewis Page's cross past Marek Rodak. The Dev Squad's
performance was a significant improvement from last Friday's 4-0 defeat by
Liverpool. Despite plenty of industry and hard work there were few chances
for either side. Speaking after the game, Lee said: "Friday was definitely a
better performance than last week. It hasn't been a great start to the
season. The boys are working hard in training and we know the results will
come soon. "We've earned an away draw on Friday so it's a good point, we
could have come away with more in the end. I think we can look at it in a
positive way as one point gained. It was a tough game out there and I think
we worked hard for the point."
Lee was clearly delighted to open his account for the season: "I hadn't
scored this season until today despite having a great pre-season. I knew
there would be a dip along the way, so hopefully this will be the start of a
run of goals for me." The striker hopes the Dev Squad can build on Friday's
positive performance as they are still looking for the first league win
after five matches. "It hasn't been a great start to the season. Bar the
Liverpool game, every other match could have gone our way. On Friday there
were signs of improvements and things going our way, eventually we'll go on
a roll and start winning."
The Development Squad's next game is against Sunderland at the Boleyn Ground
on Monday 29 September, kick-off 7pm.
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I WAS STARTING TO WONDER WHAT THE ATTRACTION OF WEST HAM WAS...
By Iain Dale 21 Sep 2014 at 17:00
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Hammers Claudia
I am German, but the opposite of Hamburg Hammer: I was working in Hamburg
and this English guy turned up. My West Ham relationship started with
another kind of relationship. One of our early dates in 2005 was in an Irish
bar in Hamburg where he romantically took me because West Ham were playing
Ipswich in some sort of playoff. Apparently West Ham went on to get
promoted.
Went with BF to Vienna for weekend break in May 2006 and sat once again in
an Irish bar to watch the FA cup final – BF stormed out at the end without
realising he had a tab and we were chased down the road by an irate barman.
I was starting to wonder what the attraction of West Ham was?
A few years went by and I eventually moved to the UK for good in late 2009.
That was a great season, every Saturday night watching boyfriend sulking
round the place. After relegation I foolishly suggested that perhaps life in
Championship where losing one game a month was better than winning one game
every 2 months? Didn't help his mood.
During Championship season I bought boyfriend tickets for Nottingham Forest
at Upton Park for his birthday. Arrived at Upton Park tube and the moment I
left the station I think that was the moment that I realised why people
support West Ham – a sea of claret and blue marching down Green Street
stirred my heart. Once we got to the ground it was confirmed – all thoughts
of following a 'winning' club like Chelsea (which I admit I toyed with – was
offered corporate hospitality at Stamford Bridge but never went as look on
BF face when I told him suggested that this was not going to be good for
future relationship) was forgotten. I was not to become the next 'plastic
fan', the West Ham atmosphere pulled me in and saved me.
Sat in the pub watching West Ham beat Hull on the last day of the season but
to no avail as Coventry lost to Southampton. I was away in Germany for first
leg v Cardiff but BF sent regular texts. 2nd leg we watched in a pub in
Wimbledon (where we live) and was a great result but surrounded by Chelsea
'plastics' so atmosphere not good.
If I needed any more West Ham heroin to secure the addiction then that came
when we watched the playoff final in the Wentworth in Mile End. That was one
of the best days of my life! After the game the juke box played Tom Jones,
Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin and we danced the night away with some of the
most genuine people I have met.
I don't go regularly – no season ticket – but we went several times in that
first season up. I now know the words to bubbles and more importantly
understand what support is all about. As a German I like winning but
understand that with West Ham it is not the same as World Cup domination –
if only! BF says its character building. The feeling in my heart when
singing bubbles at Upton Park is something I cant explain to anyone.
Worst experience? Fulham, 1st Jan 2014. Got soaked walking from station and
watched the most hopeless, gutless performance I have ever seen from West
Ham.
So, as we enter the second season of my Academy membership I have high hopes
(even after watching us lose to totscum on day 1 along with BF's brother who
is spuds fan). I have learnt that it is not all about winning, it is all
about emotion, support, heartbreak, elation, frustration, loyalty,
fraternity and being part of something special.
Winning would be good though!
Hammers Claudia
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Diafra Sakho has been an instant hit at West Ham... who is the Hammers' new
hero?
Diafra Sakho scored in West Ham's 3-1 win over Liverpool at Upton Park
Hammers new signing has now scored three goals in four games
Senegal international arrived from Metz, although deal almost fell through
By SAMI MOKBEL FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 21 September 2014 | UPDATED: 22:30, 21 September 2014
West Ham new-boy Diafra Sakho has made an instant impact at Upton Park,
scoring three goals in four games, for the Hammers. Here Sportsmail takes a
look at Upton Park's current hero.
There wasn't a big song and dance about him signing was there?
No, he slipped under the radar somewhat. He arrived from Metz for just
£3.5million. If he carries on the way he'll prove one of the bargains of the
season.
What are his attributes?
Certainly his pace. The forward's rapidness caused Liverpool's defence major
problems on Saturday and West Ham's rivals can expect more of the same. His
versatility and directness will be key for the Hammers, with the Senegal
international able to play anywhere across the forward line.
Did he have any other summer suitors?
Newcastle, with their strong knowledge of French football, were interested
in the Sakho, but Sam Allardyce beat his former club to the punch. The deal
nearly fell through, however, when the Hammers tried to change the structure
of the deal, forcing Metz to release this strongly worded statement: 'The
English club unilaterally decided to propose a loan deal with an option to
purchase instead of a permanent deal, which does not correspond to FC Metz's
expectations and contradicts all the terms that had been agreed last week
between the two clubs. 'FC Metz regret this clear lack of respect, which is
unacceptable, from West Ham towards FC Metz and also the player. As a
result, FC Metz reserve the right to approach the international sport court
and assert their rights and defender their interests. 'FC Metz had released
Diafra Sakho from his professional duties during matchday 1 of the Ligue 1
championship by giving him leave to take a medical in England to complete
the last stage of the deal.'
Three in four is a good return, what's his goal record like?
Not bad, he's scored 40 goals for Metz in his previous two seasons. They
were all out of the French top-flight, though.
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Sam Allardyce and reborn West Ham United teach Liverpool a lesson in
preparation and resilience
West Ham exposed Brendan Rodgers' lack of experience of Champions League's
additional demands with a dynamic start and by stifling Steven Gerrard
Stewart Downing's performance at the tip of West Ham's midfield diamond was
key to exploiting Liverpool's heavy legs and minds
The Telegraph
By Gerry Cox, Upton Park10:30PM BST 21 Sep 2014
The worst fears of many Liverpool fans were substantiated here as a reborn
West Ham United picked apart a team clearly missing the match-winning
capabilities of Luis Suárez and Daniel Sturridge – and hungover from the
elation and exertion of their Champions League return. Brendan Rodgers
worked wonders to push Liverpool ahead of Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester
United last season, but the Reds had no European football to disrupt their
domestic programme and also had one of world football's few genuine
gamechangers in Suárez. With the Uruguayan gone, and Sturridge sidelined by
injury, Liverpool do not have the same goal threat, so they can hardly
afford to gift the opposition a two-goal lead inside seven minutes, as they
did here. Their terrible start was down to a combination of Sam Allardyce's
smart tactics and post-Champions League fatigue, after Liverpool laboured to
beat Ludogorets at an emotion-filled Anfield last Tuesday. Seeing a
teamsheet containing eight of the players who had completed 90 minutes four
days earlier, Allardyce sent out a side to press and harry just high enough
up the pitch to seize on any Liverpool mistake and counter-attack at speed.
His plan worked to perfection as West Ham raced into a two-goal lead, and by
the time Rodgers reshaped his team, they had a mountain to climb.
It was no fluke. West Ham were worthy winners, and Allardyce knew what to
expect, based on his own experiences in Europe with Bolton Wanderers and
also the teachings of his friend Sir Alex Ferguson, who had to learn how to
cope with the rigours of a Champions League campaign. "When I spoke to Sir
Alex, who is the master and the first man to start rotation 20 years ago, he
said you need two teams, one for Europe and one for the Premier League,
particularly the game after," Allardyce said. "When we [Bolton] looked
around European football everyone flew back straight after the game and our
idea was not to fly back until the day after. In the home games it was about
making sure we had enough players in the squad and being brave enough to
change them. We wouldn't play the same player on a Thursday night as we did
on a Sunday. That was the research we did."
Rodgers refused to use it as an excuse, but outlined the difficulty of
preparing for West Ham last week. "You've got a lot less time working with
the team; if you play on the Saturday, you've got Sunday/Monday for
recovering, you've got the Tuesday game, and then the players who play are
recovering Wednesday/Thursday. "So you're doing your first tactical
preparation on the Friday, and then you're travelling straight down to the
game. But you can't complain about it, we're glad to be here, this is what
we have to get used to. We have no excuses today, we just weren't at our
level. We haven't been playing well enough, it's as simple as that. I can
stand and give you excuses about the number of players, and injured players,
but for us we just need to work together. When we win, lose, draw, there's
no blame. We just have to focus on our performance level."
Liverpool were particularly poor in the opening quarter before Rodgers
effected a reshuffle, changing from 4-4-2 to a three-man defence, but West
Ham were already 2-0 ahead. Winston Reid scored from close range following a
Stewart Downing free-kick, before Diafra Sakho chipped the ball past Simon
Mignolet.
Although Raheem Sterling made it 2-1 with a stunning strike for the Reds in
the 26th minute, West Ham withstood Liverpool's attempts at a comeback and
completed the rout when Downing played in substitute Morgan Amalfitano to
make it 3-1 in the closing stages. Downing was again superb in a more
central role, and combined his own attacking instincts with the key role of
keeping Steven Gerrard under lock and key.
"He was fantastic," Allardyce said. "Our tactic today was to close down
Gerrard, which was Stewart's job and not only did he do that but he was
creative as well. Moving him inside has meant his talent and ability has
come through and he gets more touches in there. Hopefully we can play him in
there more often. He was enjoying it."
Downing certainly got the better of his former captain. "My job was to keep
him quiet. If you give him time and space he can hurt you with his great
range of passing, so you've got to get tight to him and stop him playing.
That was the key today, but it was the whole team doing their jobs properly
that got us the win."
He is relishing his new role and West Ham's more expansive approach this
season. "I'm certainly enjoying it. The manager has given me more freedom to
play in the middle, so credit to him. I feel more involved in the game,
constantly on the ball. "The manager has bought well, brought in good
footballers who can handle the ball, which really helps. He's got some of us
in different roles, and we're playing well. Alex Song has been a good
signing and played really well today, and they have settled in quickly,
which is the biggest thing."
And so to the Suárez question. Like Tottenham Hotspur last summer, Liverpool
have tried to replace their top scorer and talisman with a raft of new
players, but Downing does not expect to see instant success at his former
club. "There is no hiding the fact that Luis and his 30 to 35 goals a season
is a massive thing for them to lose. At times he carried Liverpool, there's
no hiding from that. He got match-winning goals and he's a big loss.
Brendan's brought in a lot of people and it will take time for them to
settle. I am sure they will be all right. It is difficult to play in the
Champions League and then play again a few days later, but he has the squad
to mix it around so there should be no complaints. "A lot of those players
played on Tuesday and will be feeling the effects, so you have to take
advantage of that. We were fresher and that is why we pressed from the off.
It paid off because we got the early goals and it was uphill for them after
that."
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Joking Gold 'compliments' Reid
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Joking David Gold has had a little fun at Winston Reid's expense. The
central defender set the Irons on their way with a close-in goal at Upton
Park against Liverpool. He finished off a fine free kick from Stewart
Downing and far post header into the area from James Tomkins. And Gold – in
a humorous aside – let his admiration show on Twitter after watching the
effort again. Gold had earlier tweeted that the display against Brendan
Rodgers' side was the best all round performance he had seen since himself
and David Sullivan had taken charge at the club. And he declared: "Just
watched the game again, Winston Read is absolutely deadly from 15 inches! Dg
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Hammers react to Defoe speculation
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have this afternoon (Sun) revealed it's "highly unlikely" they will
move for Jermain Defoe in the January transfer window. His club Toronto FC
are aware that the former Hammers striker may have grown disillusioned to
life at the club following the sacking of Ryan Nelsen and will not stand in
his way.
And that has immediately started fresh speculation in the Sunday tabloids
that Sam Allardyce – a known admirer – is ready to move in. But a highly
placed source told ClaretandHugh within the last few minutes: "I'm not sure
how much more mileage they can squeeze out of this one. "We are more than
happy with what we have in Enner Valencia, Diafra Sakho, Mauro Zarate and
Andy Carroll. "We spent right up to our limits in the window and it's highly
unlikely we'll be looking in the direction of strikers."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kouyate facing scan
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Cheikhou Kouyate will tomorrow have a scan on the injury that saw him play
out the Liverpool game in obvious pain. The brave midfielder refused to
depart the action and ensured that – despite being a 'passenger' – he
continued to cause nuisance value as the Hammers c0mpleted their fine win.
He pulled up – appearing to hold his groin in the 80th minute – and now
faces the scan which will reveal the extent of the problem. One source said:
"I think he may be facing an absence.I hope I'm wrong but we will know more
tomorrow. "It was a fantastic win but we picked up some injuries which is
why we can never get too carried away in this game."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has praised Stewart Downing's contribution to West Ham
United's promising start to the season
21.09.2014
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce hailed Stewart Downing's early-season
form after the attacking midfielder was instrumental in Saturday's 3-1 win
against his former side Liverpool. Downing was again deployed at the tip of
Big Sam's attacking diamond formation and he rewarded his manager by playing
a key role in two of the Hammers' three goals. His free-kick from the right
led to Winston Reid's opener and then he neatly fed Morgan Amalfitano in the
dying minutes to complete the hosts' scoring. "Stewart's been outstanding
this season," Allardyce said. "Playing him in the middle has really worked.
His talent is clear for everyone to see. The ball for Amalfitano's goal was
superb. He gets more touches in the centre, I'm sure he's enjoying it."
While the manager insisted that everyone should savour the victory he was
careful to add a note of caution that another stern test awaits on Saturday
when West Ham travel to Manchester United. After two consecutive attacking
displays that have delivered five goals and four points, he does not want
his side to get ahead of themselves. "Monday is another day, we could enjoy
the result on Saturday but we need to make sure on Monday we get ready for
Old Trafford, because that is a massive game. "We can't dwell on the victory
for too long. We can definitely enjoy it, but on Monday we'll get our feet
back on the ground, and see what we can do at Old Trafford."
The Hammers started last Saturday's game emphatically as they raced to a two
goal lead as Reid and Diafra Sakho scored inside the first seven minutes.
Liverpool starlet Raheem Sterling lashed in a shot from the edge of the box
to make it 2-1 at half-time, yet the first home win of the season was
secured as Downing released Amalfitano to slot home. "We couldn't have
asked for a better start. We played a high pressing game today which is why
we dominated Liverpool in the first half," Big Sam added. "To score two
goals in that early period really stunned the Liverpool players. We really
played outstandingly well, and we deserved everything we've got today."
Sakho was also one of the standout performers as he scored an audacious lob
from a tight angle. There were some questions post-match about whether the
summer signing from Metz had meant to shoot, but Big Sam explained he was in
no doubt it was a deliberate shot: "Sakho definitely meant to score. He was
ballistic when the Hull goal was given as an own goal. When the Dubious
Goals Panel changed their minds you couldn't wipe the smile off his face.
"He loves scoring goals. For me he's gone under the radar because we signed
Enner Valencia. But he scored 20 goals for Metz last year."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lee targets run of goals
WHUFC.com
West Ham United striker Elliot Lee hopes his opening goal of the season is
the first of many
21.09.2014
West Ham United striker Elliot Lee scored his first goal of the season to
help the Development Squad clinch a 1-1 draw away to Fulham at Motspur Park
on Friday night. Fulham opened the scoring in the 52nd minute through a
cushioned header by striker Marcello Trotta before Lee equalised two minutes
later, steering Lewis Page's cross past Marek Rodak. The Dev Squad's
performance was a significant improvement from last Friday's 4-0 defeat by
Liverpool. Despite plenty of industry and hard work there were few chances
for either side. Speaking after the game, Lee said: "Friday was definitely a
better performance than last week. It hasn't been a great start to the
season. The boys are working hard in training and we know the results will
come soon. "We've earned an away draw on Friday so it's a good point, we
could have come away with more in the end. I think we can look at it in a
positive way as one point gained. It was a tough game out there and I think
we worked hard for the point."
Lee was clearly delighted to open his account for the season: "I hadn't
scored this season until today despite having a great pre-season. I knew
there would be a dip along the way, so hopefully this will be the start of a
run of goals for me." The striker hopes the Dev Squad can build on Friday's
positive performance as they are still looking for the first league win
after five matches. "It hasn't been a great start to the season. Bar the
Liverpool game, every other match could have gone our way. On Friday there
were signs of improvements and things going our way, eventually we'll go on
a roll and start winning."
The Development Squad's next game is against Sunderland at the Boleyn Ground
on Monday 29 September, kick-off 7pm.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
I WAS STARTING TO WONDER WHAT THE ATTRACTION OF WEST HAM WAS...
By Iain Dale 21 Sep 2014 at 17:00
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Hammers Claudia
I am German, but the opposite of Hamburg Hammer: I was working in Hamburg
and this English guy turned up. My West Ham relationship started with
another kind of relationship. One of our early dates in 2005 was in an Irish
bar in Hamburg where he romantically took me because West Ham were playing
Ipswich in some sort of playoff. Apparently West Ham went on to get
promoted.
Went with BF to Vienna for weekend break in May 2006 and sat once again in
an Irish bar to watch the FA cup final – BF stormed out at the end without
realising he had a tab and we were chased down the road by an irate barman.
I was starting to wonder what the attraction of West Ham was?
A few years went by and I eventually moved to the UK for good in late 2009.
That was a great season, every Saturday night watching boyfriend sulking
round the place. After relegation I foolishly suggested that perhaps life in
Championship where losing one game a month was better than winning one game
every 2 months? Didn't help his mood.
During Championship season I bought boyfriend tickets for Nottingham Forest
at Upton Park for his birthday. Arrived at Upton Park tube and the moment I
left the station I think that was the moment that I realised why people
support West Ham – a sea of claret and blue marching down Green Street
stirred my heart. Once we got to the ground it was confirmed – all thoughts
of following a 'winning' club like Chelsea (which I admit I toyed with – was
offered corporate hospitality at Stamford Bridge but never went as look on
BF face when I told him suggested that this was not going to be good for
future relationship) was forgotten. I was not to become the next 'plastic
fan', the West Ham atmosphere pulled me in and saved me.
Sat in the pub watching West Ham beat Hull on the last day of the season but
to no avail as Coventry lost to Southampton. I was away in Germany for first
leg v Cardiff but BF sent regular texts. 2nd leg we watched in a pub in
Wimbledon (where we live) and was a great result but surrounded by Chelsea
'plastics' so atmosphere not good.
If I needed any more West Ham heroin to secure the addiction then that came
when we watched the playoff final in the Wentworth in Mile End. That was one
of the best days of my life! After the game the juke box played Tom Jones,
Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin and we danced the night away with some of the
most genuine people I have met.
I don't go regularly – no season ticket – but we went several times in that
first season up. I now know the words to bubbles and more importantly
understand what support is all about. As a German I like winning but
understand that with West Ham it is not the same as World Cup domination –
if only! BF says its character building. The feeling in my heart when
singing bubbles at Upton Park is something I cant explain to anyone.
Worst experience? Fulham, 1st Jan 2014. Got soaked walking from station and
watched the most hopeless, gutless performance I have ever seen from West
Ham.
So, as we enter the second season of my Academy membership I have high hopes
(even after watching us lose to totscum on day 1 along with BF's brother who
is spuds fan). I have learnt that it is not all about winning, it is all
about emotion, support, heartbreak, elation, frustration, loyalty,
fraternity and being part of something special.
Winning would be good though!
Hammers Claudia
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diafra Sakho has been an instant hit at West Ham... who is the Hammers' new
hero?
Diafra Sakho scored in West Ham's 3-1 win over Liverpool at Upton Park
Hammers new signing has now scored three goals in four games
Senegal international arrived from Metz, although deal almost fell through
By SAMI MOKBEL FOR THE DAILY MAIL
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 21 September 2014 | UPDATED: 22:30, 21 September 2014
West Ham new-boy Diafra Sakho has made an instant impact at Upton Park,
scoring three goals in four games, for the Hammers. Here Sportsmail takes a
look at Upton Park's current hero.
There wasn't a big song and dance about him signing was there?
No, he slipped under the radar somewhat. He arrived from Metz for just
£3.5million. If he carries on the way he'll prove one of the bargains of the
season.
What are his attributes?
Certainly his pace. The forward's rapidness caused Liverpool's defence major
problems on Saturday and West Ham's rivals can expect more of the same. His
versatility and directness will be key for the Hammers, with the Senegal
international able to play anywhere across the forward line.
Did he have any other summer suitors?
Newcastle, with their strong knowledge of French football, were interested
in the Sakho, but Sam Allardyce beat his former club to the punch. The deal
nearly fell through, however, when the Hammers tried to change the structure
of the deal, forcing Metz to release this strongly worded statement: 'The
English club unilaterally decided to propose a loan deal with an option to
purchase instead of a permanent deal, which does not correspond to FC Metz's
expectations and contradicts all the terms that had been agreed last week
between the two clubs. 'FC Metz regret this clear lack of respect, which is
unacceptable, from West Ham towards FC Metz and also the player. As a
result, FC Metz reserve the right to approach the international sport court
and assert their rights and defender their interests. 'FC Metz had released
Diafra Sakho from his professional duties during matchday 1 of the Ligue 1
championship by giving him leave to take a medical in England to complete
the last stage of the deal.'
Three in four is a good return, what's his goal record like?
Not bad, he's scored 40 goals for Metz in his previous two seasons. They
were all out of the French top-flight, though.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce and reborn West Ham United teach Liverpool a lesson in
preparation and resilience
West Ham exposed Brendan Rodgers' lack of experience of Champions League's
additional demands with a dynamic start and by stifling Steven Gerrard
Stewart Downing's performance at the tip of West Ham's midfield diamond was
key to exploiting Liverpool's heavy legs and minds
The Telegraph
By Gerry Cox, Upton Park10:30PM BST 21 Sep 2014
The worst fears of many Liverpool fans were substantiated here as a reborn
West Ham United picked apart a team clearly missing the match-winning
capabilities of Luis Suárez and Daniel Sturridge – and hungover from the
elation and exertion of their Champions League return. Brendan Rodgers
worked wonders to push Liverpool ahead of Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester
United last season, but the Reds had no European football to disrupt their
domestic programme and also had one of world football's few genuine
gamechangers in Suárez. With the Uruguayan gone, and Sturridge sidelined by
injury, Liverpool do not have the same goal threat, so they can hardly
afford to gift the opposition a two-goal lead inside seven minutes, as they
did here. Their terrible start was down to a combination of Sam Allardyce's
smart tactics and post-Champions League fatigue, after Liverpool laboured to
beat Ludogorets at an emotion-filled Anfield last Tuesday. Seeing a
teamsheet containing eight of the players who had completed 90 minutes four
days earlier, Allardyce sent out a side to press and harry just high enough
up the pitch to seize on any Liverpool mistake and counter-attack at speed.
His plan worked to perfection as West Ham raced into a two-goal lead, and by
the time Rodgers reshaped his team, they had a mountain to climb.
It was no fluke. West Ham were worthy winners, and Allardyce knew what to
expect, based on his own experiences in Europe with Bolton Wanderers and
also the teachings of his friend Sir Alex Ferguson, who had to learn how to
cope with the rigours of a Champions League campaign. "When I spoke to Sir
Alex, who is the master and the first man to start rotation 20 years ago, he
said you need two teams, one for Europe and one for the Premier League,
particularly the game after," Allardyce said. "When we [Bolton] looked
around European football everyone flew back straight after the game and our
idea was not to fly back until the day after. In the home games it was about
making sure we had enough players in the squad and being brave enough to
change them. We wouldn't play the same player on a Thursday night as we did
on a Sunday. That was the research we did."
Rodgers refused to use it as an excuse, but outlined the difficulty of
preparing for West Ham last week. "You've got a lot less time working with
the team; if you play on the Saturday, you've got Sunday/Monday for
recovering, you've got the Tuesday game, and then the players who play are
recovering Wednesday/Thursday. "So you're doing your first tactical
preparation on the Friday, and then you're travelling straight down to the
game. But you can't complain about it, we're glad to be here, this is what
we have to get used to. We have no excuses today, we just weren't at our
level. We haven't been playing well enough, it's as simple as that. I can
stand and give you excuses about the number of players, and injured players,
but for us we just need to work together. When we win, lose, draw, there's
no blame. We just have to focus on our performance level."
Liverpool were particularly poor in the opening quarter before Rodgers
effected a reshuffle, changing from 4-4-2 to a three-man defence, but West
Ham were already 2-0 ahead. Winston Reid scored from close range following a
Stewart Downing free-kick, before Diafra Sakho chipped the ball past Simon
Mignolet.
Although Raheem Sterling made it 2-1 with a stunning strike for the Reds in
the 26th minute, West Ham withstood Liverpool's attempts at a comeback and
completed the rout when Downing played in substitute Morgan Amalfitano to
make it 3-1 in the closing stages. Downing was again superb in a more
central role, and combined his own attacking instincts with the key role of
keeping Steven Gerrard under lock and key.
"He was fantastic," Allardyce said. "Our tactic today was to close down
Gerrard, which was Stewart's job and not only did he do that but he was
creative as well. Moving him inside has meant his talent and ability has
come through and he gets more touches in there. Hopefully we can play him in
there more often. He was enjoying it."
Downing certainly got the better of his former captain. "My job was to keep
him quiet. If you give him time and space he can hurt you with his great
range of passing, so you've got to get tight to him and stop him playing.
That was the key today, but it was the whole team doing their jobs properly
that got us the win."
He is relishing his new role and West Ham's more expansive approach this
season. "I'm certainly enjoying it. The manager has given me more freedom to
play in the middle, so credit to him. I feel more involved in the game,
constantly on the ball. "The manager has bought well, brought in good
footballers who can handle the ball, which really helps. He's got some of us
in different roles, and we're playing well. Alex Song has been a good
signing and played really well today, and they have settled in quickly,
which is the biggest thing."
And so to the Suárez question. Like Tottenham Hotspur last summer, Liverpool
have tried to replace their top scorer and talisman with a raft of new
players, but Downing does not expect to see instant success at his former
club. "There is no hiding the fact that Luis and his 30 to 35 goals a season
is a massive thing for them to lose. At times he carried Liverpool, there's
no hiding from that. He got match-winning goals and he's a big loss.
Brendan's brought in a lot of people and it will take time for them to
settle. I am sure they will be all right. It is difficult to play in the
Champions League and then play again a few days later, but he has the squad
to mix it around so there should be no complaints. "A lot of those players
played on Tuesday and will be feeling the effects, so you have to take
advantage of that. We were fresher and that is why we pressed from the off.
It paid off because we got the early goals and it was uphill for them after
that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joking Gold 'compliments' Reid
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Joking David Gold has had a little fun at Winston Reid's expense. The
central defender set the Irons on their way with a close-in goal at Upton
Park against Liverpool. He finished off a fine free kick from Stewart
Downing and far post header into the area from James Tomkins. And Gold – in
a humorous aside – let his admiration show on Twitter after watching the
effort again. Gold had earlier tweeted that the display against Brendan
Rodgers' side was the best all round performance he had seen since himself
and David Sullivan had taken charge at the club. And he declared: "Just
watched the game again, Winston Read is absolutely deadly from 15 inches! Dg
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers react to Defoe speculation
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have this afternoon (Sun) revealed it's "highly unlikely" they will
move for Jermain Defoe in the January transfer window. His club Toronto FC
are aware that the former Hammers striker may have grown disillusioned to
life at the club following the sacking of Ryan Nelsen and will not stand in
his way.
And that has immediately started fresh speculation in the Sunday tabloids
that Sam Allardyce – a known admirer – is ready to move in. But a highly
placed source told ClaretandHugh within the last few minutes: "I'm not sure
how much more mileage they can squeeze out of this one. "We are more than
happy with what we have in Enner Valencia, Diafra Sakho, Mauro Zarate and
Andy Carroll. "We spent right up to our limits in the window and it's highly
unlikely we'll be looking in the direction of strikers."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kouyate facing scan
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on September 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Cheikhou Kouyate will tomorrow have a scan on the injury that saw him play
out the Liverpool game in obvious pain. The brave midfielder refused to
depart the action and ensured that – despite being a 'passenger' – he
continued to cause nuisance value as the Hammers c0mpleted their fine win.
He pulled up – appearing to hold his groin in the 80th minute – and now
faces the scan which will reveal the extent of the problem. One source said:
"I think he may be facing an absence.I hope I'm wrong but we will know more
tomorrow. "It was a fantastic win but we picked up some injuries which is
why we can never get too carried away in this game."
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